Vibrant and refreshing, this Asparagus Salad is bursting with tender asparagus, crisp greens, and juicy tomatoes. Tossed in a tangy honey lime vinaigrette, it’s irresistibly fresh, full of flavor, and ready in just 15 minutes.

Jump to:

• ❤️ Why You'll Love This Asparagus Salad Recipe
• 🛒 Ingredients for Asparagus Salad
• 🔪 How to Make Asparagus Salad
• 💡 Tips for Making Asparagus Salad
• ☑️ Storage Instructions
• 🍴 What to Serve with Fresh Asparagus Salad
• 🔄 Substitutions and Additions
• Do I Have to Blanch the Asparagus?
• Can I Prepare the Salad in Advance?
• What if My Asparagus is Tough?
• Can I Use Frozen Asparagus?
• 🍽️ More Healthy Salad Recipes

❤️ Why You'll Love This Asparagus Salad Recipe

• Fresh tender asparagus
• Mix of crisp spring greens and juicy tomatoes
• Toasted pecans, sweet red onion and blue cheese
• Tossed in an easy homemade honey lime vinaigrette
• Easy to make in under 15 minutes
• Vegetarian friendly and low carb

When it comes to easy, vibrant side dishes, it just doesn't get better than this Asparagus Salad. It’s filled with fresh asparagus, crisp greens, and juicy tomatoes that scream “springtime on a plate.” Add in some toasted pecans, a touch of creamy blue cheese, and a drizzle of sweet-tangy honey lime vinaigrette, and you’ve got a dish that’s as irresistible as it is beautiful.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just jazzing up a weeknight meal, this salad is always a crowd-favorite. It’s quick to make, vegetarian-friendly, and naturally low-carb, making it a versatile option for nearly any table. Trust me, once you try it, the flavors and textures will have you hooked.

If you love fresh asparagus recipes, be sure to check out this recipe for Sauteed Asparagus and this Cream of Asparagus Soup.

🛒 Ingredients for Asparagus Salad

• Asparagus
• Mixed salad greens
• Honey Lime Vinaigrette
• Cherry tomatoes
• Pecans
• Blue cheese
• Red onion

*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

🥣 Recommended Tools

• Saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Serving bowl

🔪 How to Make Asparagus Salad

Wash and chop your asparagus into 2-3” pieces, discarding the bottoms.

Heat a saucepan with water and boil the asparagus for a few minutes, or until tender, but not soft.

Immediately plunge them into a bowl with ice water.  This helps to stop the cooking, so they retain their shape and also sets the bright green color. Then drain on paper towels and set side.

Add the mixed greens into a large salad bowl or platter.

Add the asparagus, cherry tomatoes, toasted pecans, red onion and blue cheese crumbles over the top.

Pour the dressing on top right before serving, and toss to combine.

💡 Tips for Making Asparagus Salad

This is such an easy recipe you can't mess it up. But, here are some tips that I found that make it even more foolproof every time:

• Ensure even cooking by cutting the asparagus into pieces of the same size.
• Excess water can dilute the dressing, so use a salad spinner or pat greens dry with a towel.
• Serve the salad on chilled plates to keep it crisp and refreshing.
• Mix the salad with tongs to avoid bruising the greens or breaking delicate ingredients.

☑️ Storage Instructions

You can store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. I would keep the dressing separate for the best texture. This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing

🍴 What to Serve with Fresh Asparagus Salad

This salad is awesome with any of your favorite entrees. Here are some popular main courses to consider:

• Protein: You can serve this salad alongside grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, or fish. The smoky flavors from the grill complement the fresh and vibrant flavors of this salad. This Grilled Citrus Chicken, this easy Grilled Steak, and these Grilled Shrimp Skewers are all wonderful options.

• Soup: A soup and salad combo is always a hit. Pair this salad with a bowl of soup, such as this Carrot and Lentil Soup or this Cream of Asparagus Soup.

• Pasta: For a hearty meal, you can serve fennel salad as a side dish with pasta dishes like this Creamy Tuscan Tortellini or Penne Alla Vodka. 

🔄 Substitutions and Additions

• Add a protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs make this salad a heartier main dish.

• Swap the cheese: Try feta, goat cheese, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

• Add avocado: Creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing and crisp veggies.

• Include fresh herbs: Chopped parsley, basil, or dill can brighten the flavors even more.

• Mix in other veggies: Radishes, cucumbers, or peas are great additions to the mix.

• Use a different nut: Almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts work well in place of pecans.

• Make it Mediterranean: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean twist.

• Swap the dressing: A Citrus Vinaigrette or Mango Dressing offers a delicious alternative.

Do I Have to Blanch the Asparagus?

You don't have to but I recommend it. Blanching softens the asparagus slightly while preserving its bright color and fresh taste.

Can I Prepare the Salad in Advance?

Yes, but keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to avoid soggy greens.

What if My Asparagus is Tough?

To prevent ending up with tough and chewy asparagus, look for younger, thinner spears, and trim off the woody ends.

Can I Use Frozen Asparagus?

Using fresh asparagus is ideal for texture, but you can use frozen if that's all you can find. If using frozen, blanch it quickly and drain thoroughly.

🍽️ More Healthy Salad Recipes

• Best Quinoa Salad
• Greek Pasta Salad
• Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
• Italian Pasta Salad
• Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad
• Sweet Potato Winter Salad
• Pickled Beet Salad