Sesame Asparagus Salad

Name: Sesame Asparagus Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 10-12 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1/4 cup water; 8 cups torn romaine; 1 green onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons chopped pimientos; 1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 teaspoon dried basil; 1/8 teaspoon salt

Just in time for the springtime asparagus crop comes this refreshing side dish. "The sesame seeds give it a taste we all enjoy," confides Mrs. A. Squair of Salmon Arm British Columbia. "I often serve breadsticks with it for even more crunch."—Mrs. A. Squair, Salmon Arm, British Columbia

Ingredients

1 pound fresh asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup water
8 cups torn romaine
1 green onion, chopped
2 tablespoons chopped pimientos
1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/8 teaspoon salt

Directions

In a saucepan, combine asparagus and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 4-8 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender. Drain. Place asparagus in a large bowl and chill. Just before serving, add romaine, onion and pimientos. In a small bowl, whisk sesame seeds, lemon juice, oil, pepper, basil and salt; pour over salad and toss.

Originally published as Sesame Asparagus Salad in Crafting Traditions March/April 1997