Asparagus With Strawberry Nut Oil Vinaigrette

🌱🍓 Asparagus With Strawberry Nut Oil Vinaigrette 🍓🌱

What is it?
Asparagus with Strawberry Nut Oil Vinaigrette is a delightful and fresh dish that combines the earthy flavor of asparagus with the sweet and tangy notes of strawberry vinaigrette. It’s a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that make it perfect for spring or summer.

History:
The exact origin of this dish is unclear, but it likely evolved as a creative way to enjoy asparagus when it’s in season. The combination of asparagus and strawberry vinaigrette reflects the desire for a balance of savory and sweet flavors in contemporary cuisine.

Components:

• Fresh asparagus spears
• For the vinaigrette:
  • Fresh strawberries
  • Nut oil (e.g., walnut or hazelnut oil)
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Honey or maple syrup for sweetness
  • Salt and pepper for seasoning
  • Optional: goat cheese, toasted nuts (e.g., slivered almonds) for garnish

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prep the Asparagus:

   • Wash the asparagus and trim off the woody ends.
   • If desired, blanch the asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This step is optional, as some people prefer asparagus to be tender-crisp.

2. Make the Strawberry Nut Oil Vinaigrette:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine fresh strawberries, nut oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup for sweetness, salt, and pepper.
   • Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

3. Assemble the Dish:

   • Arrange the asparagus on a serving platter or individual plates.
   • Drizzle the strawberry vinaigrette over the asparagus. You can also add a few slices of fresh strawberries for a visual touch.

4. Garnish:

   • Optional: Crumble goat cheese or sprinkle toasted nuts, like slivered almonds, on top for added texture and flavor.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the asparagus with strawberry nut oil vinaigrette as a side dish or a refreshing salad. It pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Time Needed:

• The time required to prepare this dish can vary, but it typically takes around 15-20 minutes if you blanch the asparagus and have the vinaigrette ready. This does not include any additional time for optional garnishes or variations.

Enjoy your Asparagus With Strawberry Nut Oil Vinaigrette, a colorful and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire! 🍽️🍓🌿

Certainly! Here are some nutrition facts and health information related to Asparagus With Strawberry Nut Oil Vinaigrette:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values):

• Serving Size: 1 serving of asparagus with strawberry nut oil vinaigrette (without optional garnishes)

• Calories: Approximately 80-100 calories per serving, primarily from asparagus and the vinaigrette.

• Carbohydrates: Approximately 8-12 grams, with most of it coming from asparagus and natural sugars in strawberries. The vinaigrette may add some additional carbohydrates from honey or maple syrup.

• Protein: Around 2-4 grams per serving, mainly from asparagus and a small amount from the nut oil.

• Fat: About 5-8 grams, primarily from the nut oil in the vinaigrette.

• Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, providing around 2-3 grams per serving.

• Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is rich in vitamins such as vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate. It also contains minerals like potassium.

Health Information:

1. Low in Calories: Asparagus is a low-calorie vegetable, making this dish a healthy option for those looking to manage their calorie intake.

2. Rich in Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy digestive system.

3. Vitamins and Antioxidants: Asparagus is packed with vitamins like vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting, and vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system. Strawberries in the vinaigrette provide additional vitamin C and antioxidants.

4. Heart Health: Nut oils like walnut or hazelnut oil are sources of heart-healthy unsaturated fats, which can contribute to improved cardiovascular health.

5. Natural Sweetness: The use of strawberries and a touch of honey or maple syrup in the vinaigrette provides natural sweetness without the need for excessive added sugars.

6. Low in Sodium: Asparagus is naturally low in sodium, making this dish suitable for those on a low-sodium diet.

7. Versatility: This dish is highly adaptable and can be customized to fit various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan diets.

Remember that the nutrition facts can vary based on the specific ingredients and portions used, so it’s always a good idea to calculate the exact values based on the ingredients you use. Enjoy this dish as part of a balanced and healthy diet! 🌱🍓🥗