🍽️ Asparagus With No-Cook Creamy Mustard Sauce
What is it:
Asparagus with no-cook creamy mustard sauce is a delectable dish featuring tender asparagus spears paired with a flavorful, creamy sauce that has a zesty kick from mustard. It’s a wonderful side dish or appetizer, showcasing the natural freshness of asparagus and the tangy richness of the sauce.
History:
The history of asparagus dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its consumption found in ancient Egyptian and Roman cultures. Mustard, the primary flavor in the sauce, has a rich history as well, tracing back to ancient civilizations like the Romans and Egyptians. The combination of these two ingredients likely evolved over time as cooks experimented with flavors and ingredients.
Components:
- Asparagus spears
- Dijon mustard
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Lemon juice
- Garlic (optional)
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Steps to Prepare:
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Prep the Asparagus:
- Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus and discard them.
- If desired, peel the lower part of the asparagus spears for a more tender texture.
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Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard with 1/4 cup of mayonnaise and 1/4 cup of sour cream.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to taste.
- If you like, finely mince a clove of garlic and add it to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference. Mix everything until it’s well combined.
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Cook the Asparagus:
- There are various ways to cook asparagus, but a popular method is to blanch it. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the asparagus spears and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they are tender yet still crisp.
- Immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help retain the vibrant green color and texture.
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Serve:
- Arrange the blanched asparagus on a serving platter.
- Drizzle the creamy mustard sauce over the asparagus.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped chives or parsley, for a pop of color and added flavor.
Time Needed:
- Preparation: 10-15 minutes
- Cooking Asparagus: 2-3 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Enjoy this delicious and elegant dish with the freshness of asparagus and the bold flavors of the creamy mustard sauce! 😋🌱🍽️
🥦 Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Asparagus With No-Cook Creamy Mustard Sauce:
Note: Nutritional values can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used. The following information is provided as a general guideline.
Asparagus (1 cup, cooked):
- Calories: Approximately 40
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 4 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fat: Less than 1 gram
- Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is a good source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate, iron, and potassium. It’s also known for its high content of antioxidants.
Creamy Mustard Sauce (per serving, approximately 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: Around 80-100 (varies based on specific brands and ingredients)
- Carbohydrates: 1-2 grams
- Protein: Less than 1 gram
- Fat: 8-10 grams
- The sauce contains ingredients like mayonnaise and sour cream, which contribute to its creamy texture and flavor. It’s rich in fats, primarily from mayonnaise, and has the tangy kick of Dijon mustard.
Health Information:
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Asparagus: Asparagus is low in calories and an excellent source of dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy weight. It is also packed with various vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
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Creamy Mustard Sauce: The creamy mustard sauce adds richness and flavor to the dish but is also calorie-dense due to the mayonnaise and sour cream. While these ingredients provide a creamy texture, they are also higher in saturated fat. It’s essential to use the sauce in moderation if you’re watching your fat and calorie intake.
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Balance: When enjoying this dish, keep in mind that the asparagus itself is quite healthy, but the creamy sauce should be consumed in moderation to maintain a balanced diet. You can opt for lighter versions of mayonnaise or sour cream to reduce the fat content if desired.
As with any recipe, the nutritional impact can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, so it’s a good idea to adapt the dish to meet your dietary needs and preferences. 🌿🍴📊
