Shaved Asapargus with Mustard Seed Vinaigrette

For the most part, I eat the same damn thing everyday. I know, what a bummer, right!? Insert: crushing expectations of me slaving over a warm dehydrator in a cute Mrs. Cleaver-like apron.

In reality, it’s more of a ke$ha-look, as I erratically combine random veggies to create something somewhat appetizing. However, for the sake of my sanity, there comes a point where I’ve got to mix it up.

Shaved asparagus, sliced radishes and a mustard seed vinaigrette. I know some people are self-proclaimed salad haters (cough, Amber, cough), but for me, salad is the backbone of my diet. I love it, I crave it, and I pretty much live off of it. I have a good friend who in college always said ‘you make the best salads, Callie – what’s your secret?’ Umm, my secret? My secret is, if it’s edible, I throw it in the bowl! So, a refined salad such as that below, is quite unusual for me. Restraint, what!? Yeah, that’s right, sometimes I actually can control my kitchen tourettes and keep it simple.

I should note, if you’re not a fan of mustard (and by mustard, I mean mustard seeds) you won’t like this vinaigrette. Personally, I love a bold mustard with a strong bite. However, must people don’t realize that mustard purchased from the store, is much milder than the seed itself.

Shaved Asparagus with Mustard Seed Vinaigrette

serves 1

.5 bunch asparagus
5 radishes

Wash asparagus and trim ends. Using a vegetable peeler, peel the stems of the asparagus spears – starting under the bract. Save the bracts (tops) and set aside. Thinly slice radishes.

Mustard Seed Vinaigrette

makes about 6 – 8 ounces

.33 C fresh orange juice
2 T white wine vinegar
.5 t brown mustard seed
.25 C olive oil
dash of stevia (maple syrup, dates, agave, etc…)

Blend all ingredients in a blender. Store in an air-tight jar.

Assembly

Sea Salt
Coarse Pepper
Orange Zest
Asparagus Bracts

In a large bowl, toss shaved asparagus, sliced radishes, coarse pepper, sea salt and vinaigrette. Plate salad and garnish with asparagus bracts and orange zest.

Hope everyone has a great St. Paddy’s Day! Unfortunately, I’ve somewhat outgrown the shit-face wasted bar phase of my life ( ), so instead of drinking green beer, I’ll be working. Damn, I’m old.

Enjoy!

Tagged as: appetizer, easy, quick, Raw, salad, summer, vegan