Zesty Lemon-Dijon Asparagus Delight 🍋

Asparagus Vinaigrette 🌿

Recipe Overview:

• Name: Asparagus Vinaigrette
• Category: Vegetable
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

Introduction:

Elevate your vegetable game with this tantalizing Asparagus Vinaigrette recipe, crafted to perfection by lovewithrecipes.com. Bursting with freshness and flavor, this dish is not only a culinary delight but also packs a punch of health benefits, making it an ideal addition to your menu. Quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious, this recipe is a true testament to the wonders of simplicity in cooking. Let’s dive into the details and whip up this delectable dish!

Ingredients:

• 2 bunches of fresh asparagus
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons of dijon-style mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 4 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon of bread crumbs (optional, for garnish)

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 100.1
• Fat Content: 5.6g
• Saturated Fat Content: 0.8g
• Cholesterol Content: 0mg
• Sodium Content: 128mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 10.7g
• Fiber Content: 3g
• Sugar Content: 3.2g
• Protein Content: 3.6g

Directions:

Let’s embark on a culinary journey and create this mouthwatering dish step by step:

1. Prepare the Asparagus:

   • Start by rinsing the asparagus spears under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
   • Trim off the tough ends of the asparagus spears, if necessary.
   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil and prepare a steamer basket.
   • Steam the asparagus spears until tender but still crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the asparagus and arrange them neatly on a serving platter.

2. Prepare the Vinaigrette:

   • In a small jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, dijon-style mustard, ground black pepper, and salt.
   • Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified into a smooth vinaigrette.

3. Assemble and Serve:

   • Just before serving, pour the prepared vinaigrette evenly over the steamed asparagus spears, ensuring they are well coated.
   • Optionally, sprinkle the dish with a tablespoon of bread crumbs for added texture and flavor.
   • Garnish the asparagus with halved cherry tomatoes, distributing them evenly for a burst of color and freshness.
   • Serve the asparagus vinaigrette immediately, while still warm, or at room temperature for a refreshing twist.

Serving Suggestions:

This vibrant Asparagus Vinaigrette makes for a stunning side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or pasta dishes, its zesty flavors and crisp texture are sure to complement any meal. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider sprinkling some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus before serving. Additionally, you can customize the vinaigrette by incorporating herbs such as chopped fresh parsley or basil for a burst of aromatic freshness.

Recipe Notes:

• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply give it a good shake before using it to dress the asparagus.
• Leftover Love: If you happen to have any leftover asparagus vinaigrette, don’t let it go to waste! It makes for a delightful addition to salads, sandwiches, or even as a flavorful dip for crusty bread.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can substitute white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for the lemon juice for a tangy twist. Additionally, you can swap out the cherry tomatoes for sliced roasted red peppers or diced avocado for added variety.

Conclusion:

With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and nutritious profile, this Asparagus Vinaigrette recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a wholesome and delicious side dish, this recipe ticks all the boxes. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to impress your taste buds with this delightful creation. Enjoy the goodness of fresh asparagus dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, and savor every bite of this culinary masterpiece!