Tangy Sweet Asparagus Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
Category: Vegetable | Keywords: < 30 Mins, Easy
If you’re in the mood for a simple, yet flavorful vegetable side dish, this tangy sweet asparagus recipe is the perfect choice. The fresh, crisp asparagus is steamed to perfection and then dressed with a luscious mix of butter, balsamic vinaigrette, and crushed garlic-flavored croutons. This dish offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes and a cook time of 10 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a quick side for a special dinner.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh asparagus | 1 bunch |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic-flavored croutons | 2 tablespoons |
| Balsamic vinaigrette | 1/2 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 71.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 3.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 8 mg |
| Sodium | 84.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 7.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.6 g |
| Sugars | 2.4 g |
| Protein | 3.1 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Asparagus: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the asparagus under running water to remove any dirt or debris. After rinsing, gently snap off the woody ends of the asparagus stalks. These tough ends can be discarded.
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Steam the Asparagus: Place the asparagus in a large skillet and add about 1/2 inch of water. Cover the skillet and steam the asparagus over medium heat for approximately 5 minutes, or until it becomes tender yet still slightly crisp to the bite.
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Drain the Asparagus: Once the asparagus has finished steaming, carefully drain any remaining water from the skillet. Return the asparagus to the pan, ready for the next step.
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Season: Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the hot asparagus and stir gently until the butter is melted and evenly coats the asparagus. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as desired for extra flavor.
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Add the Finishing Touches: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the asparagus, giving it a light tangy flavor. Top with the crushed garlic-flavored croutons for a delightful crunch and added depth of flavor.
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Serve: Serve immediately as a side dish, garnished with a few extra croutons if desired. This tangy sweet asparagus will pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, from roasted chicken to grilled fish.
Pro Tips:
- For a more intense flavor, feel free to experiment with adding other seasonings such as garlic powder, lemon zest, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- You can easily make this dish ahead of time by steaming the asparagus and refrigerating it until ready to serve. Simply reheat in the skillet with butter and vinaigrette for a quick finish.
This easy-to-make side dish is sure to impress your guests or provide a nutritious, flavorful addition to any meal. The fresh asparagus combined with the creamy butter, tangy balsamic vinaigrette, and crispy croutons creates a wonderful medley of textures and tastes that everyone will love.
