Shaved Asparagus and White Bean Salad Recipe

Asparagus Salad with Cannellini Beans

This fresh, crisp salad is packed with healthy ingredients, making it the perfect side dish or light meal. With a tangy lemon dressing and the creamy addition of cannellini beans, it's a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 pound thick-stemmed asparagus, trimmed
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced English cucumber
• 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
• 2 radishes, thinly sliced
• 1 (15 1/2 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup shaved Parmesan cheese, or to taste

Directions

1. Using a vegetable or julienne peeler, shave the asparagus into thin ribbons. Place the ribbons into a large bowl.
2. To the bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, halved grape tomatoes, radishes, and rinsed cannellini beans.
3. Drizzle the fresh lemon juice and olive oil over the ingredients. Sprinkle with garlic salt and black pepper.
4. Gently toss everything together to combine, ensuring the vegetables and beans are evenly coated with the lemony dressing.
5. Top the salad with freshly shaved Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Information	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	251
Total Fat	6g	8%
Saturated Fat	2g	10%
Cholesterol	7mg	2%
Sodium	598mg	26%
Total Carbohydrate	35g	13%
Dietary Fiber	10g	35%
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	16g	32%
Vitamin C	16mg	17%
Calcium	201mg	15%
Iron	5mg	29%
Potassium	991mg	21%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data.

History of the Dish

The Shaved Asparagus and White Bean Salad is a contemporary twist on traditional American salads, showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients. Asparagus has been a beloved vegetable in Western cuisine for centuries, dating back to ancient Egypt and Rome, where it was valued for both its flavor and medicinal properties. Over time, asparagus found its way into European kitchens and became a staple of spring dishes. The use of white beans in salads became popular during the Mediterranean diet movement in the 20th century, known for promoting health and longevity. The combination of fresh, raw vegetables and beans in this salad offers a light, refreshing yet hearty meal, which reflects the growing trend of plant-based eating in modern American cuisine.

Regional Features

While this salad is popular in the United States, it is heavily influenced by Mediterranean and Italian culinary traditions. Asparagus, a vegetable native to the Mediterranean region, is commonly found in many Mediterranean dishes, often paired with fresh vegetables and light vinaigrettes. The use of cannellini beans adds an Italian flair, as these beans are a staple in Tuscany, where they are often incorporated into salads and soups. This dish is especially suited for the spring and summer months, when asparagus is in season and local produce is abundant.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Compared to other salads that typically use lettuce or spinach as a base, the Shaved Asparagus and White Bean Salad stands out with its use of raw, thinly sliced asparagus as the main component. The asparagus adds a distinct crunch and freshness, while the white beans provide a creamy texture and a boost of protein. This salad is lighter and more flavorful than heavier, mayo-based salads, and its simple olive oil and lemon dressing enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. It can easily be made into a main course or served as a side dish, unlike many other salads that are typically used as accompaniments rather than centerpieces of a meal.

Where It's Typically Served

The Shaved Asparagus and White Bean Salad is often served in fine dining restaurants, as well as at casual gatherings such as barbecues, picnics, or family meals. It is a popular choice for spring and summer celebrations due to its fresh ingredients that reflect the season's bounty. You might find it on the menu at farm-to-table restaurants, which focus on showcasing locally sourced and seasonal produce. Additionally, it makes for an excellent light lunch or a healthy side dish at dinner parties. Its versatility means it can be adapted to a variety of occasions, from casual meals to more formal settings.

Interesting Facts

• Asparagus has been cultivated for over 2,000 years, and it was once considered a delicacy reserved for royalty in ancient Egypt and Greece.
• White beans, also known as cannellini beans, are rich in fiber and protein, making them a great addition to plant-based diets.
• The Shaved Asparagus and White Bean Salad is not only delicious but also a nutritious choice, providing a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• In Italy, asparagus is often paired with Parmesan cheese, a combination that is echoed in the shaved Parmesan topping for this salad.

FAQ about Shaved Asparagus and White Bean Salad Recipe