”It’s That Simple” is our series on recipes so effortless, you could whip them up blindfolded. Imagine short ingredient lists, easygoing methods, and flavors so tasty you’ll want to brag to your friends about them. Raw asparagus rarely takes center stage as the star of a dish, but with proper prep, the spears don’t just stand up—they truly dazzle. Here, they’re gently crushed in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin into uneven chunks. This method accomplishes two things: First, it slightly breaks down the asparagus, rendering it more tender and easier to eat. But more importantly, it creates endless nooks and crannies for dressing to cling to. The basic dressing is made with only olive oil, lemon, and shallots. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and sticks just right. You can serve this dish as-is for a straightforward side, or add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or any protein of your choice to turn it into a hearty main salad.
