Asparagus With Creamy Sesame Dressing
Overview
As spring beckons with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this delightful recipe for Asparagus With Creamy Sesame Dressing shines as a perfect addition to any meal, whether served as a refreshing first course or as a side dish that complements your favorite entrees. Not only does it captivate with its beautiful presentation, but it also offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. With the dressing made in advance, this dish can be prepared effortlessly, allowing you to enjoy the company of your guests or family without the stress of last-minute cooking.
Key Details
| Category | Vegetable |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | 141.5 kcal |
| Rating | 3.5 (2 reviews) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 8.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0.8 mg |
| Sodium | 57.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Total Sugars | 5.8 g |
| Protein | 7.7 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 1/2 lbs | asparagus |
| 2/3 cup | nonfat yogurt |
| 2 tbsp | lemon juice |
| 1 cup | parsley (or cilantro) |
| 4 tbsp | walnuts |
| 1/4 tsp | sesame oil (optional) |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Asparagus: Begin by trimming the tough ends off the asparagus, ensuring they are ready to absorb all the delightful flavors of the dressing. You can either steam or microwave the asparagus until it reaches just the right tenderness—aim for a vibrant green color while maintaining a slight crunch. Once cooked, transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process and cool it down, preserving its beautiful texture and color.
-
-
Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the nonfat yogurt and lemon juice, creating a smooth base that will envelop the asparagus in a creamy embrace. If you choose to add sesame oil for a richer flavor, drizzle it in slowly while whisking to combine. This step is essential for achieving that deliciously creamy and nutty dressing that will elevate the dish.
-
Herb Infusion: Next, chop the parsley (or cilantro, depending on your preference) finely and fold it into the yogurt mixture. The fresh herbs add a bright, aromatic quality to the dressing that perfectly balances the richness of the yogurt.
-
Season to Taste: At this point, taste your dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the flavors beautifully, bringing all the ingredients together in harmony.
-
Serving the Dish: Lay the cooled asparagus neatly on a serving platter, arranging it in a visually appealing manner. Drizzle the creamy sesame dressing generously over the asparagus, ensuring each spear is coated with the luscious sauce.
-
Final Touch: To finish, sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top. Their crunchiness provides a delightful contrast to the creamy dressing and tender asparagus, adding both texture and flavor.
-
Enjoy: This dish can be served immediately or refrigerated for later enjoyment. Serving it cold not only enhances its refreshing quality but also allows you to prepare it in advance, making it an excellent choice for brunch gatherings or as part of a larger meal.
Conclusion
This Asparagus With Creamy Sesame Dressing embodies the essence of healthy eating without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. Whether you opt to present it as a standalone dish or as a vibrant accompaniment to your main course, its colorful appeal and deliciously creamy dressing are sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Embrace the season’s bounty and indulge in this quick and easy recipe that celebrates the simple pleasure of fresh vegetables. Enjoy every bite!
