Shaved Asparagus Lemon Parmesan (Print Version)

Tender asparagus ribbons, lemon, and shaved Parmesan create a light spring dish bursting with flavor.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 pound fresh asparagus, ends trimmed
02 - 2 cups arugula or baby spinach, optional

→ Dressing

03 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
04 - Zest and juice of 1 lemon
05 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
06 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Cheese & Garnish

08 - 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Using a vegetable peeler, shave asparagus stalks lengthwise into thin ribbons. Remove and discard tough ends.
02 - Place shaved asparagus and arugula or baby spinach into a large salad bowl.
03 - In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, sea salt, and black pepper until fully emulsified.
04 - Pour the dressing over the asparagus and greens. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
05 - Arrange salad on a serving platter. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese and sprinkle toasted pine nuts, if desired.
06 - Serve immediately to preserve texture and flavor.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • This salad tastes impossibly fresh, as if spring rolled onto your plate, and the lemon zing keeps you coming back for more.
  • It's so quick to make, you'll have plenty of time to chat or pour wine before dinner.
02 -
  • Don’t rush the shaving—if hurried, I ended up with lumpy bits that muddled the salad's texture.
  • Toss just before serving or the asparagus can lose its snap.
03 -
  • Shave the asparagus while it's chilled for easier handling and cleaner ribbons.
  • Lemon zest added last gives a burst of fragrance that wakes up the whole salad.
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