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 mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Additional Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Medium Saucepan
Medium Mixing Bowl
Small Mixing Bowl
Spider Utensil
- 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
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!
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