Asparagus With Mustard Vinaigrette

Here is an easy, springtime recipe that takes no time at all and puts the light flavors of the season right onto your table. Cooking time is key: both the asparagus and the eggs must be watched carefully. Arrange everything on a plate beautifully, and throw open the windows to spring.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds large or medium asparagus
• 4 large eggs
• 1 small shallot, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon finely cut chives

• Nutritional Information

  • Nutritional analysis per serving (4 servings)

    240 calories; 18 grams fat; 3 grams saturated fat; 0 grams trans fat; 11 grams monounsaturated fat; 2 grams polyunsaturated fat; 9 grams carbohydrates; 4 grams dietary fiber; 4 grams sugars; 10 grams protein; 186 milligrams cholesterol; 159 milligrams sodium

  Note: Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available data.
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4 to 6 servings

Preparation

1. Snap off and discard the tough bottoms of each asparagus spear. If using large thick asparagus, peel the lower ends with a vegetable peeler. Medium asparagus will not need peeling.
2. Bring a medium saucepan half filled with water to a boil, carefully add the eggs and simmer briskly for 9 minutes (10 minutes for a slightly firmer yolk). Transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool. Shell the eggs and set aside.
3. Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, place the shallots, vinegar and a pinch of salt. Let shallots soften for 5 minutes. Stir in the mustard to dissolve, then whisk in the olive oil to make a thick dressing. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
4. In a large stainless-steel soup pot bring 4 quarts of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until just done. Remove asparagus with a large strainer and spread out on a baking sheet lined with a clean kitchen towel. Asparagus may be served warm or at room temperature.
5. To serve, place asparagus on a platter or individual plates. Spoon the vinaigrette over the asparagus. Garnish with quartered eggs (or roughly chop the eggs if you prefer). Sprinkle with chives.

About 20 minutes