We are lucky enough to live in a world with both bright Spring asparagus and perfect eggs. I approach both with extreme reverence… and then I smash them together on a plate and call it lunch. Praise the Lord.
It’s time for another Simple Lunch! I’m usually smashing lunch together on a baguette, as evidenced by this avocado, and these edamames.
This Simple Lunch is slightly more refined.
It was inspired by, and consumed while reading Very Fond of Food. This book is tender and earnest in equal measure and I love it, I love it, I love it!
It feels like this Spring is full of new air, big love, bright green vegetables… and this orange monster (always…).
Let’s keep the recipe for this Simple Lunch as easy as possible.
– Make a hard boiled egg. I lower an egg into a pot of room temperature water. Water covers the egg. Over medium heat, bring the water to a low boil. Cover. Remove from heat. Wait 12 minutes. Remove egg. Rinse in cold water and peel.
– Bring a medium saute pan of water to a low boil. Salt water. Add asparagus and allow to boil for about 3 minutes. Use tongs to remove the vegetable. Arrange on a plate. Top with sliced egg. Sprinkle with extras.
– I love extras! This dish is graced with grey sea salt, coarse black pepper, blood orange olive oil, and… a cute napkin. It is everything ever.
The Simple Lunch. Inspired.
Katie
I just bought chalkboard paint to do the same thing to an unfinished table I have! I thought it would be great for blog photos and also for hosting friends…labeling different cheeses or fruits and wines.
Katherine Marie
What is that chalkboard thing??? love love this set up. to the max.
Megan Gordon
What a sweet book, isn’t it?! I have it by my bed and really love her tone and the feel of the whole thing. Loving the way this lunch looks, too. Happy weekend, J.
Amy
I go through phases of being obsessed with hard-boiled eggs and asparagus. Luckily I’m in one right now. This looks fantastic.
xoxo,
mon amy
Stevie
What is that awesome chalkboard surface?! :D
Laura
Mmmm egg and asparagus is such a good combo. I must say though, my favourite way to eat it will always be the asparagus grilled with sea salt, pepper and olive oil, and then use them to dip into a soft boiled egg like soldiers. Heaven!
xxx
Averie @ Averie Cooks
Thanks for the book review and I just love love love your book, Joy. Seriously I have opened it up, almost daily, since I met you in O.C. at Todd & Dianne’s and have loved all the recipes and your adorable stories :)
Maggie @ A Bitchin' Kitchen
Umm…LOVE these pictures! I want that chalkboard thing! Looks like a yummy lunch too – I literally just made hard-boiled eggs 20 minutes ago to dye for Easter!
Sally @ Spontaneous Hausfrau
The kitty is totally stealing the show – I mean, this lunch looks delicious, but I really want to eat the kitty’s little face.
Trina
I seem to remember Julia Roberts having a carpet picnic with nothing but asparagus, a hard-cooked egg, some olives, and a copy of the paper in the movie version of Eat Pray Love…part of the whole “dolce far niente/sweetness of doing nothing” thing.
Lucia
Simple things are the best ones. Spring is simple. Hugs are simple. Asparagus are simple.
Julia Levy
Asparagus dipped in soft boiled eggs with sea salt, simple pleasures, total heaven.
Chris
Absolutely perfect. I know it’s not as simple, but when it comes to asparagus and egg combos, I’m not sure your asparagus quiche can be beat. I could happily live the rest of my days off of that heavenly creation. Oh yes.
Maria @ Orchard Bloom
The best asparagus I ever had were very similar to this, except saucier. You’ve inspired me to recreate! Also, I’ve wondered about that cookbook. Glad to know it’s good!
Amy
The egg and veggie combo is one of my faves. Sometimes, I sub brussels sprouts in for asparagus or fry the egg instead.
Also, I’m a little obsessed with Jules. I want him to be friends with my cat, Harry.
Finally, this staging = ADORABLE. Holy cow.