Asparagus with Watercress
Notes: Up to 1 day ahead, cook asparagus; cool, cover, and chill. Mix dressing; cover and let stand. Radicchio di Trevisio leaves are long and narrow.
How to Make It
Step 1
1
Snap off and discard tough ends of asparagus. In a 5- to 6-quart pan over high heat, bring 2 quarts water to a boil. Add asparagus; cook, uncovered, until barely tender when pierced, about 5 minutes. Drain and immerse in cold water. When cool, in about 5 minutes, drain.
Step 2
2
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix oil, vinegar, mustard, and tarragon.
Step 3
3
Arrange watercress and radicchio (whole leaves or slivered) on a platter. Top with asparagus. Drizzle dressing over asparagus and greens. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Ingredients
2 pounds asparagus
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons champagne or white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried tarragon
4 cups tender watercress sprigs, rinsed and crisped
1/2 pound radicchio di Trevisio, red Belgian endive, or regular radicchio, rinsed and crisped (optional)
Salt and pepper
Directions
Step 1
1
Snap off and discard tough ends of asparagus. In a 5- to 6-quart pan over high heat, bring 2 quarts water to a boil. Add asparagus; cook, uncovered, until barely tender when pierced, about 5 minutes. Drain and immerse in cold water. When cool, in about 5 minutes, drain.
Step 2
2
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix oil, vinegar, mustard, and tarragon.
Step 3
3
Arrange watercress and radicchio (whole leaves or slivered) on a platter. Top with asparagus. Drizzle dressing over asparagus and greens. Add salt and pepper to taste.
