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plate of asparagus and bean salad 3

ASPARAGUS & CANNELLINI BEAN SALAD

Author: Michelle @ An Italian Kitchen
A light and vibrant asparagus and cannellini bean salad, tossed with fresh herbs, lemon, and olive oil—perfect for spring.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Additional Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Medium Mixing Bowl
  • Small Mixing Bowl
  • Spider Utensil

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound thin Asparagus
  • 1 can Cannellini Beans - drained and rinsed
  • 2 Tablespoons Finely Chopped Parsley
  • 1 Tablespoon Finely Chopped Basil
  • ½ Lemon - juiced
  • ¼ cup Extra Virgin Olive OIl
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt
  • ¼ teaspoon Pepper

Instructions

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. While the water heats, gently rinse the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces.
  • Blanch the asparagus. Add asparagus to the boiling water and cook for 5–6 minutes, until just tender but still vibrant.
  • Prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  • Prepare an ice bath. Fill a medium bowl with cold water and ice.
  • Shock the asparagus. Using a spider utensil, transfer the asparagus directly into the ice bath. This stops the cooking and preserves the bright green color. Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then drain.
  • Assemble the dish. On a serving platter, spread the cannellini beans evenly. Drizzle with a small amount of dressing.
  • Layer and finish. Add the asparagus on top, pour over the remaining dressing, and gently toss to combine.
  • Serve. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.
  • Buon Appetito!

Notes

Finish with:
  • Extra drizzle of high-quality EVOO
  • Lemon zest for brightness
  • Shaved Parmigiano Reggiano (optional but lovely)
Pair with:
  • Grilled chicken or fish
  • Crusty Italian bread
  • Light white wine (Pinot Grigio, Vermentino)
Special Instructions:
  • Don’t overcook the asparagus — aim for tender with a slight bite
  • Ice bath = key for color + texture (worth the extra step)
  • Use good olive oil — it’s the backbone of the dish
  • Make ahead tip: Prep components in advance, but toss just before serving
  • Shortcut: Skip ice bath and spread on a sheet pan to cool quickly (slightly softer result)
Keyword 30-Minute Meal, Central Italy, Easy, Healthy, Spring, Toscano, Vegetarian