When you've overdosed on hot fun in the summertime, the only meal that sounds remotely palatable is a crisp salad. This one from the Tasting Table Test Kitchen takes the last of the season's asparagus, steams them gently, then pairs them with cool sliced radishes, peppery arugula and a bright citrus dressing grounded with the slightest hint of miso. A few crunchy bites will rehabilitate your warm-weather weariness.
Asparagus, Radish and Arugula Salad with Miso-Lemon Vinaigrette
Recipe from the Tasting Table Test Kitchen
Yield: Serves 4
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
Ice
½ pound medium asparagus spears (about 12 spears), tough ends removed
Zest and juice of ½ lemon
1½ teaspoons red or white miso paste
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons canola or grapeseed oil
6 cups arugula
2 medium radishes, trimmed and thinly sliced
Directions
1. Fill a bowl with ice and water and set on the counter. Fill a large pot with 1 inch of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Insert a steamer, add the asparagus, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low (or use a microwave steamer to steam the asparagus). Steam the asparagus until tender, 4 to 5 minutes. Use tongs to transfer the asparagus to the ice-water bath, then place the spears on a kitchen towel to drain. Set the spears on a cutting board and halve on the bias.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, miso paste, 1 teaspoon water, salt and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the oil and whisk until thick and creamy. Add the arugula, radishes and asparagus and lightly toss to combine. Transfer to a platter or individual plates and serve.