Asparagus With Warm Tarragon-Pecan Vinaigrette ๐ฑ๐ฐ
What is it?
Asparagus With Warm Tarragon-Pecan Vinaigrette is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the earthy taste of asparagus with the rich, nutty notes of pecans and the aromatic essence of tarragon. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that can be served as a side dish or a light, healthy appetizer.
History:
The exact origins of this dish are unclear, but it’s a modern culinary creation that showcases the art of combining fresh, seasonal ingredients with complementary flavors. Asparagus has been enjoyed for centuries, and tarragon and pecans have long been used in various cuisines. The unique combination of these ingredients likely emerged as a creative and tasty way to serve asparagus.
Components:
- Asparagus spears ๐ฑ
- Pecans ๐ฐ
- Tarragon leaves ๐ฟ
- Olive oil or butter for roasting
- Salt and pepper
- Dijon mustard
- Red wine vinegar
- Honey
- Shallots
- Lemon zest
- Lemon juice
Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Asparagus: Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC). Trim the woody ends of the asparagus spears and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Roast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes or until they are tender but still crisp.
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Toast the Pecans: While the asparagus is roasting, place the pecans on a separate baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.
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Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small saucepan, combine Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, honey, finely chopped shallots, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring until it’s well combined and slightly warmed.
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Add Tarragon: Remove the vinaigrette from the heat and stir in fresh tarragon leaves. Tarragon adds a lovely, anise-like flavor that pairs beautifully with asparagus.
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Assemble: Arrange the roasted asparagus on a serving platter and drizzle the warm tarragon-pecan vinaigrette over the top.
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Garnish: Crush or chop the toasted pecans and sprinkle them over the asparagus for added crunch and a rich nutty flavor.
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Serve: Serve your asparagus with warm tarragon-pecan vinaigrette immediately as a side dish or appetizer.
Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare this dish may vary, but it typically takes around 30-40 minutes. This includes the time for roasting the asparagus and toasting the pecans, as well as the vinaigrette preparation.
Enjoy this dish as a delightful and healthy addition to your menu, perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals. ๐ฝ๏ธ๐
Sure, here are the nutrition facts and health information for Asparagus With Warm Tarragon-Pecan Vinaigrette:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):
- Calories: 150-200 calories (depending on the portion size and amount of vinaigrette used)
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 50-100 milligrams (may vary based on salt content)
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Fiber: 3-5 grams
- Sugars: 4-6 grams
- Protein: 3-5 grams
- Vitamin A: Approximately 25-30% of the daily recommended intake
- Vitamin C: Approximately 15-20% of the daily recommended intake
- Vitamin K: Approximately 50-60% of the daily recommended intake
- Folate: Approximately 15-20% of the daily recommended intake
Health Information:
- Asparagus is low in calories and a good source of fiber, making it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
- Asparagus is rich in folate, which is important for cell division and is especially important for pregnant women.
- It is a good source of vitamin K, which is crucial for blood clotting and bone health.
- Asparagus contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, potentially offering various health benefits.
- Pecans, which are part of the vinaigrette, are high in healthy unsaturated fats, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They can contribute to heart health and provide a feeling of fullness.
- Tarragon is a source of essential oils and phytonutrients, which may have antioxidant properties and could aid in digestion.
It’s important to note that the specific nutritional values can vary depending on portion size, the amount of vinaigrette used, and individual variations in ingredients. This dish is generally a healthy choice due to its high fiber content, low calorie count, and the nutritional benefits of asparagus, pecans, and tarragon. However, if you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist. ๐ฑ๐ฐ๐ฝ๏ธ
