Tomato-Fennel Caprese Salad with Lemon-Shallot Vinaigrette

In a small saucepan, cook asparagus in enough boiling water to cover 3 minutes; drain. Rinse with cold water to cool quickly; drain again.

Trim fennel, reserving leaves. Snip enough of the leaves to measure 2 teaspoons. If desired, reserve additional leaves for garnish. Halve and core fennel; cut into very thin slices (see Tip).

To prepare the Lemon-Shallot Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together shallots, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

In a large bowl, combine cooked asparagus, sliced fennel, spinach, tomatoes, cheese, and basil. Stir the 2 teaspoons fennel leaves into Lemon-Shallot Vinaigrette. Drizzle vinaigrette over spinach mixture; toss gently to coat. Top servings with Parmesan cheese and, if desired, additional fennel leaves.