WARM ASPARAGUS SALAD

WARM ASPARAGUS SALAD image

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

2 ounces day-old French bread or other firm white bread, sliced
1 garlic clove, peeled and halved
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
2 teaspoons extravirgin olive oil
1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 medium shallot, peeled and minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup water
1 1/2 pounds asparagus
1 teaspoon grated lemon rind (optional)

Steps:

Preheat oven to 375°. Place bread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 375° for 10 minutes or until toasted. Rub cut sides of garlic over one side of each bread slice. Place bread slices in a food processor; pulse 10 times or until bread is coarsely ground. Arrange breadcrumbs in a single layer on a baking sheet; bake at 375° for 5 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer breadcrumbs to a bowl. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook 1 to 2 minutes or until butter is lightly browned, shaking pan occasionally; remove from heat. Drizzle butter over toasted breadcrumbs; toss well to coat. Combine vinegar, oil, 1 teaspoon rind, lemon juice, and shallot; stir well with a whisk. Stir in salt and pepper. Bring water to a boil in a large skillet. Snap off tough ends of asparagus; add asparagus to pan. Cook 5 minutes or until tender, stirring constantly. Place asparagus on a serving platter. Drizzle with vinaigrette; top with breadcrumb mixture. Garnish with 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind, if desired. Serve immediately.