Asparagus with Red Pepper Puree

👩‍🍳 Asparagus with Red Pepper Puree 🌶️

What is it?
Asparagus with Red Pepper Puree is a delightful and elegant dish that combines the fresh and earthy flavors of asparagus with the sweet and slightly smoky notes of red pepper puree. This dish is a great way to celebrate the flavors of spring and make a visually appealing and delicious addition to any meal.

History:
The dish doesn’t have a specific historical origin, but it is a product of creative culinary exploration, bringing together two ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Asparagus has been consumed for centuries, while red pepper puree, often associated with Mediterranean cuisine, has also been enjoyed for generations.

Components:

• Fresh asparagus spears
• Red bell peppers
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: lemon zest, fresh herbs, or grated Parmesan for garnish

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Asparagus:

   • Wash the asparagus and trim the tough ends.
   • You can choose to steam, roast, or sauté the asparagus. Here’s a common method for roasting:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Toss the asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   • Roast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp.

2. Make the Red Pepper Puree:

   • Roast red bell peppers: Place the whole red peppers on a baking sheet under the broiler, turning occasionally until the skin is charred and blistered. Remove them from the oven, cover with a clean kitchen towel or place in a sealed container to steam for a few minutes. This will make it easier to peel the skin off.
   • Once they are cool enough to handle, peel, seed, and chop the roasted red peppers.

3. Blend the Puree:

   • In a food processor or blender, combine the roasted red peppers, garlic cloves, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   • Blend until you achieve a smooth puree. You can adjust the consistency by adding more olive oil or a touch of water if needed.

4. Plate and Serve:

   • Arrange the asparagus on a serving platter or individual plates.
   • Drizzle the red pepper puree over the asparagus.
   • Garnish with optional ingredients like lemon zest, fresh herbs, or grated Parmesan for added flavor and visual appeal.

Time Needed:
The preparation and cooking time for this dish typically take around 30-45 minutes. It may vary depending on your chosen cooking method for the asparagus and the number of components you decide to include.

Enjoy your Asparagus with Red Pepper Puree! 🍽️🌱🌶️

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Asparagus with Red Pepper Puree:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per serving):

• Calories: 80-100 kcal
• Protein: 3-5 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 3-5 grams
• Sugars: 3-5 grams
• Fat: 4-6 grams
• Vitamin A: 25-30% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 120-150% of the DV
• Vitamin K: 50-60% of the DV
• Folate: 20-25% of the DV
• Potassium: 10-15% of the DV
• Antioxidants: Asparagus contains various antioxidants, including glutathione, which can help protect your cells from damage.

Health Information:

1. Low in Calories: Asparagus with Red Pepper Puree is a low-calorie dish, making it a great choice for those looking to manage their weight.

2. Rich in Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, supports a feeling of fullness, and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

3. Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamins A, C, K, and folate. Red bell peppers are a fantastic source of vitamin C. These vitamins are crucial for immune health, skin health, and more.

4. Antioxidants: Asparagus contains various antioxidants, such as glutathione, which can help reduce oxidative stress in the body, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

5. Heart Health: Asparagus is low in fat and sodium and can be beneficial for heart health. The fiber content also supports healthy cholesterol levels.

6. Immune Support: The combination of asparagus and red bell peppers provides a significant dose of vitamin C, which plays a vital role in supporting the immune system.

7. Bone Health: The vitamin K in asparagus contributes to bone health and helps with blood clotting.

8. Digestive Health: The fiber in asparagus aids in maintaining a healthy digestive system.

9. Low in Added Sugar: This dish is naturally low in added sugars, making it suitable for those watching their sugar intake.

Please note that the actual nutrition content may vary based on the portion size and specific ingredients used in your recipe. However, Asparagus with Red Pepper Puree is a generally healthy and nutritious choice, especially when prepared with minimal added fats and sugars.