Asparagi Di Campo, or Cold Marinated Asparagus, is a classic Italian dish known for its vibrant flavors and simplicity. Here’s a detailed response to your questions, along with some emojis to add a touch of fun:
🍽️ What is Asparagi Di Campo:
Asparagi Di Campo is a delightful dish made with fresh asparagus spears that are blanched and then marinated in a flavorful dressing. It’s a popular antipasto or side dish in Italian cuisine, often served as part of a larger spread of appetizers.
📜 History:
The dish has roots in Italian culinary traditions and celebrates the delicious simplicity of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Asparagus has been cultivated in Italy for centuries, making it a natural choice for various culinary preparations.
🧪 Components:
Here are the components of Asparagi Di Campo:
- Fresh asparagus spears
- Olive oil
- White wine vinegar
- Garlic (minced or crushed)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon zest (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
👩🍳 Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Asparagus: Start by washing the asparagus and trimming the tough ends. You can do this by snapping them off where they naturally break. This ensures you get the tender part of the spears.
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Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they are bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately transfer the asparagus to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. This step preserves the vibrant green color and texture.
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Make the Marinade: In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, salt, pepper, lemon zest (if desired), and red pepper flakes (for a hint of spice). Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
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Marinate the Asparagus: Drain the blanched asparagus and pat them dry. Place them in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Gently toss the asparagus to ensure they are well coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve: When you’re ready to serve, arrange the marinated asparagus on a platter, drizzle with some of the marinade, and garnish with additional parsley and lemon zest if desired.
⏰ Preparation Time:
The preparation time for Asparagi Di Campo typically takes around 20-30 minutes, excluding the marinating time. Marinating the asparagus for a couple of hours enhances the flavor, but you can shorten this time if needed.
Enjoy this simple, refreshing dish that perfectly balances the earthy taste of asparagus with the zesty and garlicky marinade. 🍋🌿😋🇮🇹
Certainly! Here’s the nutrition information and some health details for Asparagi Di Campo:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):
- Calories: 120-150 kcal
- Total Fat: 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: 2-3g
- Sodium: 300-400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4-6g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugars: 1-2g
- Protein: 2-3g
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: Asparagus is a low-calorie vegetable, making Asparagi Di Campo a relatively low-calorie dish. It’s a great choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Rich in Dietary Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, which can support healthy digestion and help you feel full, aiding in weight management.
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Healthy Fats: The olive oil used in the marinade provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. It’s a better alternative to saturated fats.
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Low in Carbohydrates: This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following low-carb or keto diets.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is rich in various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, folate, and potassium. These nutrients contribute to overall health and well-being.
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Antioxidants: Asparagus contains antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants are beneficial for overall health and may play a role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
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Low in Sugar and Sodium: The dish is naturally low in sugar and can be prepared with minimal added sodium, making it a good choice for those monitoring sugar and salt intake.
Remember that the exact nutrition values may vary based on the specific ingredients and the portion size used in your recipe. Additionally, the olive oil and asparagus offer healthy fats and essential nutrients that can be part of a balanced diet. Enjoy your Asparagi Di Campo as a tasty and nutritious addition to your meals! 🥗🌱😊
