Asparagus with hazelnuts & tarragon vinaigret

4 Servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
1poundsFresh asparagus, trimmed
¼cupMinced shallots
3tablespoonsTarragon-white wine vinegar
4teaspoonsChopped fresh tarragon OR
teaspoonDried tarragon
1teaspoonDijon mustard
7tablespoonsHazelnut oil, walnut oil or olive oil
4cupsBaby lettuces or inner leaves of curly endive
¼cupHazelnuts, toasted, husked, coarsely chopped

Directions

Pour water into large pot to depth of 1 inch and bring to boil. Place asparagus on steamer rack set over water in pot. Cover pot and steam until asparagus is cresp-tender, about 4 minutes. Transfer asparagus to bowl of ice water and cool. Drain. Place asparagus on paper towls. (Can be prepared 6 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate.) Combine shallots, vinegar, tarragon and mustard in bowl. Gradually whisk in oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Place baby lettuces on large platter. Arrange asparagus atop lettuces. Drizzle with vinaigrette. Sprinkle with hazelnuts.

From The Loire Valley Bon Appetit/May 94 Typed by Didi Pahl