Easy Marinated Asparagus Recipe - Delicious American Side Dish

Easy Marinated Asparagus

Easy Marinated Asparagus Recipe - Delicious American Side Dish
Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Easy Marinated Asparagus
Easy Marinated Asparagus

Asparagus is a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. This Easy Marinated Asparagus recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare this nutritious vegetable.

History

Marinating asparagus is a popular way to enhance its flavor and texture. This recipe likely originated as a way to add a tangy and savory twist to the natural sweetness of asparagus.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Allow 4 spears of fresh asparagus per serving.
  2. Dip the asparagus in boiling water and drain immediately.
  3. Pour Paul Newman (or similar) salad dressing over the asparagus, cover, and marinate overnight.
  4. Serve on lettuce leaves.

Variations

  • Try adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the marinade for added flavor. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to choose fresh asparagus spears for the best flavor and texture. Marinating the asparagus overnight allows the flavors to fully develop and infuse the vegetable.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Marinated Asparagus recipe can be served as a side dish or as a light and refreshing appetizer. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the asparagus briefly before marinating helps to soften the vegetable slightly and enhance its flavor. Be sure not to overcook the asparagus, as it should still be crisp-tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to use your favorite salad dressing in place of the Paul Newman dressing. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar or citrus juices for a unique flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This Easy Marinated Asparagus recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the marinated asparagus on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with lemon wedges or fresh herbs for an extra pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This Easy Marinated Asparagus recipe pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, and pasta. It also makes a great addition to a charcuterie board or salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover marinated asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or enjoy cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Easy Marinated Asparagus recipe contains approximately 80 calories.

Carbohydrates

Asparagus is a low-carb vegetable, making it a great choice for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving of this Easy Marinated Asparagus recipe contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The main source of fat in this recipe comes from the salad dressing used for marinating the asparagus. Be sure to choose a dressing that is low in saturated fats for a healthier option.

Proteins

Asparagus is a good source of plant-based protein, providing approximately 3 grams per serving in this recipe.

Vitamins and minerals

Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and potassium. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe may contain allergens depending on the ingredients used in the salad dressing. Be sure to check the label for any potential allergens.

Summary

Overall, this Easy Marinated Asparagus recipe is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is low in carbs and calories, making it a great option for a healthy meal.

Summary

This Easy Marinated Asparagus recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Easy Marinated Asparagus. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl helping my mother in the kitchen. We were preparing for a family gathering, and my mother had decided to make a dish that she had learned from a dear friend. As she read the recipe out loud, I was captivated by the simplicity of the ingredients and the promise of a delicious dish.

The recipe called for fresh asparagus, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and a few other seasonings. As my mother began to prepare the asparagus, I watched closely, eager to learn. She showed me how to trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears and explained that the key to a successful dish was to marinate the asparagus for at least an hour before serving.

As the asparagus marinated, the aroma of garlic and balsamic vinegar filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. When the time came to serve the dish, I watched as my mother arranged the asparagus on a platter, drizzling the remaining marinade over the top. The finished dish was a beautiful sight, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

With the first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. The asparagus was tender and flavorful, with a perfect balance of tangy and savory. I couldn't believe how easy it was to make such a delicious dish, and I made a mental note to ask my mother's friend for the recipe.

Over the years, I have made Easy Marinated Asparagus countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have added a touch of honey for sweetness, or some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. I have served it as a side dish at family dinners, or as an appetizer at cocktail parties. No matter how I choose to prepare it, the dish never fails to impress.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am reminded of all the wonderful people who have shared their knowledge and love of cooking with me. From my mother and her friend, to the countless chefs and food enthusiasts I have met over the years, each one has contributed to my culinary education in some way.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from others, and to pass on the recipes and techniques that have brought me so much joy. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am thrilled to be able to share that passion with others.

So, the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a simple and delicious dish to serve to your loved ones, I urge you to give Easy Marinated Asparagus a try. Who knows, it may just become a favorite in your own kitchen, just as it has in mine.

Categories

| American Recipes | Asparagus Recipes | Low-calorie Recipes | Prepared Salad Dressing Recipes |

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