Asparagus Salad With Tomatoes Gorgonzola Recipe

This recipe is my go-to when I want something fresh and vibrant that also feels a bit indulgent, thanks to that creamy Gorgonzola. Plus, the combination of the juicy cherry tomatoes and the nutty crunch from the toasted pine nuts makes every bite a delicious adventure!

The Asparagus Salad with Tomatoes and Gorgonzola is one of those dishes where the vibrant flavors come together beautifully. Fresh asparagus and juicy cherry tomatoes form the delicious—and nutrient-packed—base of this salad.

The creamy Gorgonzola adds a delightful richness, and toasted pine nuts bring the satisfying crunch that every good salad needs.

Ingredients

Asparagus is:

– Low in calories
– High in fiber
– Aids digestion
– Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K.

Asparagus is a very nutritious food supporting many bodily functions.

Tomatoes (Cherry): These provide a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants and are very juicy and sweet.

Healthy Fats: Olive oil is a rich source of monounsaturated fatty acids, which are known to be heart-healthy and may also contribute to anti-inflammatory properties.

Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a bit of a sweet and sour punch, yet stays low in calories.

Gorgonzola: Creamy and crumbly, offers richness and a sharp, strong flavor.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. A large saucepan needs to be filled with water and then brought to a boil. To prepare an ice bath, take a large bowl and fill it with ice water.

2. Blanch the trimmed asparagus in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, until they are bright green and tender-crisp.

3. Transfer the asparagus to the ice bath without delay to halt the cooking process. After it has cooled, let it drain and dry completely, or so the instructions for this next part suggest. Stay with me.

4. In a big mixing bowl, combine the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Whisk together until well emulsified.

5. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste to the dressing.

6. Include the blanched asparagus and halved cherry tomatoes in the mixing bowl, then toss gently to coat with the dressing.

7. Carefully blend in the Gorgonzola cheese, letting it disperse nicely through the veggies.

8. If one is to use them, the toasted pine nuts should be added to the salad for a crunchy, nutty extra element.

9. Spoon the salad mixture into a serving bowl and sprinkle with fresh chopped basil. Toss to blend the flavors.

10. Refrigerate for up to an hour to let the flavors meld if you choose not to serve immediately. Enjoy your salad! Gorgonzola adds richness to this otherwise light dish. As a bonus, I’ve included tomatoes in this salad. Since tomatoes are usually considered taboo in salads with cheese, I was thinking of doing a little salad revolution with this dish!

Equipment Needed

### Kitchen Equipment and Utensils List

1. Large saucepan
2. Large bowl for ice bath
3. Slotted spoon or tongs
4. Mixing bowl
5. Whisk
6. Measuring cups and spoons
7. Cutting board
8. Knife
9. Serving bowl
10. Refrigerator (for chilling the salad)

FAQ

• Can I use another type of cheese instead of Gorgonzola?Indeed, you can swap out Gorgonzola for feta or blue cheese and achieve essentially the same flavor profile.
• Is there a way to prepare this salad in advance?The dressing may be prepared, and the vegetables chopped, ahead of time. But the salad should be combined, dressed, and served just before you plan to eat it.
• Can I add protein to this salad?For sure, this salad complements grilled chicken or shrimp beautifully and gives a nice protein boost.
• How do I toast pine nuts?To toast pine nuts, put them in a skillet that is free of moisture and warm them over a medium flame, stirring them about until they have turned a nice brown color and smell wonderful.
• Can the balsamic vinegar be replaced?Certainly, if you would like a different flavor, you can use red wine vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.
• What’s the best way to trim asparagus?To cut asparagus to size, grasp the stalk at each end and flex until it fractures; this natural breaking point occurs where the tender part ends and the woody stem begins.

Substitutions and Variations

For Gorgonzola cheese, substitute with crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese for a milder taste.
Use grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes rather than cherry tomatoes.
Replace olive oil with avocado oil or use a light salad dressing of your choice.
Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used in place of balsamic vinegar; they will impart different flavor profiles.
If you don’t have pine nuts, substitute with toasted almonds or walnuts.

Pro Tips

1. Perfectly Toast Pine Nuts Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, shaking occasionally, until they are golden brown and fragrant. This should take only a few minutes, so keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

2. Add a Hint of Citrus Enhance the flavor of your salad by adding a splash of fresh lemon juice to the olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing. This will brighten the dish and complement the richness of the Gorgonzola cheese.

3. Use High-Quality Ingredients Since this salad highlights simple ingredients, it’s important to use high-quality products, especially the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A good-quality balsamic vinegar will add a sweet, tangy depth to your dressing.

4. Basil Variations Experiment with different types of basil, such as lemon or Thai basil, to add a unique twist to the flavor profile. Chiffonade the basil by stacking the leaves, rolling them up, and slicing them into thin ribbons for the best presentation.

5. Serving Tips For an elegant presentation, lay the blanched asparagus spears on a platter first and then scatter the dressed tomatoes, Gorgonzola, and pine nuts on top. Finish with a sprinkle of basil and a dash of black pepper. This plating style showcases the colors and textures beautifully.