Balsamic Asparagus Recipe
Overview:
Indulge in the simplicity and elegance of this Balsamic Asparagus recipe, a delightful creation from lovewithrecipes.com. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also fits perfectly into various dietary preferences, including being very low in carbs, low in protein, and low in cholesterol. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when you crave something nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar, for drizzling
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C). This ensures that it’s ready to go once your asparagus is prepared. |
| 2 | Prepare asparagus: Begin by washing the asparagus spears under cold running water. Then, snap off the tough ends by bending each spear near the bottom until it naturally breaks. Discard the woody ends. |
| 3 | Prepare pan: Take a jelly roll pan and lightly coat it with olive oil, ensuring an even distribution across the surface. This step prevents the asparagus from sticking and adds a hint of flavor. |
| 4 | Arrange asparagus: Place the prepared asparagus spears on the oiled pan in a single layer. For even coating, gently jiggle the pan to distribute the oil lightly over the asparagus. |
| 5 | Bake: Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the asparagus; it’s ready when tiny wrinkles start to appear on the surface. |
| 6 | Drizzle with balsamic vinegar: Once the asparagus is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven. Immediately drizzle it with balsamic vinegar while it’s still hot. Gently shake the pan from side to side to ensure that each spear is coated evenly. |
| 7 | Serve: Your Balsamic Asparagus is now ready to be served! Arrange the spears on a platter or individual plates, and enjoy them immediately while they’re still warm and flavorful. |
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 0
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 0mg
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Serving Suggestions:
- This Balsamic Asparagus pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, such as grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or baked tofu.
- Serve it as a side dish alongside your favorite pasta or rice dish for a well-rounded meal.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped nuts for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
Tips and Tricks:
- To ensure tender asparagus, choose spears that are firm with tightly closed tips and avoid any that appear wilted or have mushy spots.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle the asparagus with salt and pepper before baking, although the balsamic vinegar adds a delightful tanginess on its own.
- If you prefer a stronger balsamic flavor, you can marinate the cooked asparagus in balsamic vinegar for a few minutes before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Enjoy them cold or reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Vegan: Simply omit the balsamic vinegar, or use a vegan-friendly alternative, to make this dish vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Balsamic Asparagus is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Low-Carb: With minimal carbohydrates, this dish is perfect for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
- Nut-Free: This recipe does not contain nuts or nut-based ingredients, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
Conclusion:
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet flavorful Balsamic Asparagus recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a nutritious side dish, this recipe ticks all the boxes. With its vibrant green color, tender texture, and tangy balsamic glaze, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the goodness of fresh asparagus in every bite, and savor the satisfaction of creating something delicious and wholesome in just under 30 minutes!
