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Italian Asparagus Salad

This colorful and crisp medley of fresh vegetables is easy enough to prepare for everyday meals, yet elegant enough for guests.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    serves 6, 1/2 cup per serving

Ingredients

1 pound asparagus spears (about 24), trimmed
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (about 2/3 ounce before removing stems)
1/4 cup light balsamic vinaigrette
2 tablespoons shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons pine nuts, dry-roasted if desired

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a skillet large enough to hold the asparagus in a single layer, bring 1 inch of water to a boil over high heat. Spread the asparagus evenly in the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes. Using tongs, carefully transfer the asparagus to a colander. Run under cold water for 1 to 2 minutes, or until cool. Dry the asparagus well on paper towels. Cut the asparagus into 1-inch pieces. Transfer to a medium bowl.

    Step 2

    Stir in the onion, bell pepper, and basil.

    Step 3

    Just before serving, add the vinaigrette, tossing to coat. Top with the Parmesan and pine nuts. Serve immediately for peak flavor.

  2. nutrition information

    Step 4

    (Per Serving)

    Step 5

    Calories: 52

    Step 6

    Total Fat: 2.0g

    Step 7

    Saturated: 0.5g

    Step 8

    Trans: 0.0g

    Step 9

    Polyunsaturated: 0.5g

    Step 10

    Monounsaturated: 0.5g

    Step 11

    Cholesterol: 1mg

    Step 12

    Sodium: 126mg

    Step 13

    Carbohydrates: 7g

    Step 14

    Fiber: 2g

    Step 15

    Sugars: 4g

    Step 16

    Protein: 3g

    Step 17

    Dietary Exchanges

    Step 18

    1 Vegetable

    Step 19

    1/2 Fat

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