White Asparagus with Black Garlic Vinaigrette

For the vinaigrette

• 5 cloves black garlic
• 1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3/4 cups extra virgin olive oil

For the rest of the dish

• 1 pound white asparagus, washed and trimmed
• 1/2 cup toasted walnut pieces
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

1. To make vinaigrette, put all of the ingredients except the olive oil in the bowl of a food processor or blender.
2. Process the ingredients until the black garlic has been completely incorporated with the rest of the ingredients.
3. With the food processor running, slowly add the olive oil, blending until the dressing has thickened.
4. Adjust seasonings to taste. Then set aside.
5. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
6. Immerse the asparagus and blanch for 1 minute.
7. Remove the asparagus from the hot water and run under cold water to stop the cooking process.
8. Dry the asparagus and arrange on a plate. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the asparagus. Then sprinkle the walnut pieces and fresh thyme leaves over the asparagus.