La Cocotte Verte

Grilling asparagus has become popular, and rightly so: the fierce heat caramelizes its natural sugars, adding sweetness and smoke to the asparagus’ fresh green flavor. A drizzle of Piment d’ Esplanette mustard vinaigrette contributes acidity with a little spicy kick. If grilling isn’t convenient, the asparagus can be pan-seared in a large skillet over high heat. This recipe works best with plump asparagus — save the delicate-pencil-thin spears for another recipe, they will overcook with high-heat methods.

Asparagus are one of the deliciously edible joys of Spring! Don’t skip the pickled onions in this recipe — they add piquancy and a wonderful jolt of pink to contrast with the green asparagus. Choose asparagus that are not too thin for this salad; tiny thin ones overcook very easily. The asparagus can be served at room temperature or chilled.