Imagine a side dish that transforms ordinary vegetables into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! This Roasted Asparagus Pea Salad is not just another vegetable recipe - it's a perfect harmony of crisp asparagus, sweet peas, tangy feta, and crunchy almonds that elevates your meal from mundane to extraordinary. Whether you're a veggie lover or someone trying to make healthy eating exciting, this recipe promises to be a game-changer in your kitchen repertoire.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup peas, fresh or frozen
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly under cold running water. Trim the tough woody ends by holding each spear and snapping off the bottom where it naturally breaks, typically about 1-2 inches from the base.
- Pat the asparagus dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better roasting and caramelization.
- Place the trimmed asparagus on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to ensure even coating.
- Spread the asparagus in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and prevent steaming.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the asparagus is tender and edges are slightly crisp and golden brown.
- If using frozen peas, briefly blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. If using fresh peas, they can be added directly to the roasting pan during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
- Remove the asparagus from the oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes to room temperature.
- Transfer the roasted asparagus and peas to a serving platter. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and sliced almonds over the top.
- For added flavor, you can optionally drizzle with a light vinaigrette or squeeze fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Serve immediately while still warm, enjoying the combination of roasted vegetables, creamy feta, and crunchy almonds.
Tips
- Always choose fresh, firm asparagus with bright green color and tight tips for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat asparagus completely dry before roasting to ensure perfect caramelization and prevent steaming.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give your vegetables space to roast, not steam.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a light vinaigrette just before serving.
- If you prefer a warm salad, serve immediately after roasting. For a refreshing twist, you can also chill the salad and serve it cold.
- Experiment with different nuts like pine nuts or walnuts if almonds aren't your preference.
- Use high-quality feta cheese for the most robust flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
