Spring Salad with Deviled Egg Vinaigrette is a vibrant, fresh dish perfect for Easter or any spring gathering. With crisp snap peas, lightly blanched asparagus, and the creamy tang of deviled egg dressing, this salad brings a unique twist to the classic concept of deviled eggs. The prosciutto and shaved Pecorino Romano cheese add an indulgent touch, while the combination of fresh herbs, mustard, horseradish, and paprika in the dressing gives it a punch of flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a great centerpiece for any table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed

• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves

• 8 oz sugar snap peas

• 1 small shallot, sliced

• 4 hard-boiled eggs (yolks used in the dressing, whites sliced for the salad)

• 2 oz prosciutto, torn into bite-size pieces

• Pecorino Romano cheese (or shaved Parmesan), for garnish

• Fresh lemon zest

• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 tsp prepared horseradish

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 2 tsp honey

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup olive oil

Directions

1. Make the Dressing: In a food processor, blend the egg yolks, water, honey, red wine vinegar, mustard, horseradish, sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper. While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.

2. Prepare the Asparagus: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for 1-2 minutes until just tender, then transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set aside.

3. Assemble the Salad: In a large platter or bowl, arrange the asparagus, snap peas, parsley, and shallots. Add the prosciutto and sliced egg whites on top.

4. Add the Dressing: Drizzle the deviled egg vinaigrette over the salad and toss lightly to combine.

5. Garnish: Top with freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese and a sprinkle of lemon zest.

Nutrients

• Calories: 220 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 9 g

• Protein: 12 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Saturated Fat: 3 g

• Cholesterol: 135 mg

• Sodium: 360 mg

• Potassium: 460 mg

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 7 g

• Vitamin A: 840 IU

• Vitamin C: 16 mg

• Calcium: 95 mg

• Iron: 2.3 mg

The Role of Fresh Spring Ingredients

The true beauty of a spring salad lies in its ingredients. Spring is the time when the first tender greens and vegetables begin to emerge from the soil, and incorporating these seasonal gems into your salad will ensure that every bite is packed with freshness and flavor. Asparagus, snap peas, and fresh parsley provide a delightful crunch, while the sweetness of the peas balances out the savory notes of the dressing.

Asparagus, often associated with springtime, brings an earthy flavor to the dish. When lightly blanched, it retains its crisp texture while becoming more tender, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the dressing. The snap peas, with their natural sweetness, add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the deviled egg vinaigrette. Together, these ingredients create a base that is both light and satisfying.

The Unique Deviled Egg Vinaigrette

What sets this salad apart is the deviled egg vinaigrette. Traditional deviled eggs are creamy, rich, and tangy, and this dressing captures those same qualities, but in a way that’s more versatile and easier to incorporate into a salad. The egg yolks, combined with ingredients like mustard, vinegar, and a bit of horseradish, form the base of the dressing. The result is a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy vinaigrette that perfectly complements the salad’s fresh vegetables.

The dressing’s velvety texture and punchy flavors are what make this salad so intriguing. While many salads rely on classic vinaigrettes made from oil and vinegar, this deviled egg version brings a new layer of creaminess, which elevates the salad to a more indulgent level. The addition of paprika, a staple in deviled eggs, adds a mild smokiness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Health Benefits of the Salad

While this salad is undoubtedly a treat for the taste buds, it also offers various health benefits, thanks to its fresh, nutrient-packed ingredients. Asparagus, for example, is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, which supports overall health and wellbeing. Snap peas are rich in fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestion and boosting the immune system. The eggs, providing protein and healthy fats, not only make the salad more filling but also contribute to a balanced diet.

The deviled egg dressing, while rich, is also made with wholesome ingredients like eggs, mustard, and vinegar, which can offer some nutritional benefits when consumed in moderation. The presence of healthy fats and protein in the dressing makes this salad a more substantial option, keeping you satisfied for longer periods.

Versatility of the Recipe

One of the reasons this salad is so appealing is its versatility. While it shines with spring vegetables, you can easily adjust the ingredients based on what’s available in your area or what’s in season. Swap out the snap peas for green beans or radishes for a bit of extra crunch. If you prefer a different protein, you could add grilled chicken or shrimp to make the salad more substantial. For a vegetarian version, simply leave out the prosciutto, or substitute it with roasted chickpeas for a plant-based option.

The deviled egg vinaigrette, too, can be customized to suit your tastes. Add more horseradish for a spicier kick, or incorporate fresh herbs like dill or tarragon for added complexity. This flexibility allows you to personalize the dish to your liking, making it a go-to salad for various occasions.

Perfect for Special Occasions and Everyday Meals

The Spring Salad with Deviled Egg Vinaigrette is an excellent dish for both special occasions and casual meals. Its vibrant colors and unique flavor profile make it a stunning centerpiece for holiday meals, especially for Easter, where fresh and light dishes are often preferred. The salad’s ability to be prepared ahead of time also makes it convenient for busy holiday cooks.

However, this salad is not limited to special occasions. Its light, refreshing taste makes it an ideal addition to a weeknight dinner or a simple weekend brunch. Pair it with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or even a light pasta dish for a balanced and satisfying meal. The deviled egg vinaigrette brings an indulgent touch to an otherwise light salad, making it perfect for when you want something a little more exciting than a basic green salad.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

To take this salad to the next level, consider adding a few garnishes that will not only enhance its flavor but also make it more visually appealing. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, salty bite that pairs well with the rich dressing. A few shavings of Pecorino over the top of the salad will elevate the overall taste and presentation, making the dish look as impressive as it tastes.

Lemon zest is another wonderful garnish, adding a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the asparagus and snap peas. You can also add some freshly cracked black pepper or a few sprigs of fresh herbs, like basil or chives, for extra freshness. A light drizzle of olive oil can also help bring the entire dish together, adding some extra richness without overpowering the delicate flavors.

Conclusion

The Spring Salad with Deviled Egg Vinaigrette is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. By combining the fresh flavors of spring vegetables with a creamy and tangy deviled egg dressing, this salad offers a unique twist on traditional recipes while still keeping things light and satisfying.