Marinated Asparagus

Marinated Asparagus Recipe with Orange Peel and Cayenne Pepper

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Marinated asparagus is a delicious and refreshing dish that is perfect for spring and summer. The combination of fresh asparagus with a tangy and citrusy marinade makes for a light and flavorful side dish or appetizer.

History

Marinated asparagus has been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of the dish appearing in different cultures around the world. Asparagus itself has a long history, with records of its cultivation dating back to ancient Egypt. The practice of marinating vegetables is also an ancient one, used as a way to preserve and enhance the flavor of fresh produce.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) fresh asparagus or 10 oz (1 package) frozen asparagus
1 tsp finely shredded orange peel
0.25 cup orange juice
0.25 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp salt
dash of cayenne pepper

How to prepare

Place a steamer basket in a saucepan or skillet with 0.5 inches of water (make sure the water does not touch the bottom of the basket).
Arrange the asparagus spears in the basket.
Cover tightly and bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat.
Steam the asparagus until it is crisp-tender, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes.
Immediately rinse the steamed asparagus under cold running water and drain it.
In a tightly covered container, shake together the remaining ingredients and pour the mixture over the asparagus.
Cover the container and refrigerate the asparagus for at least 4 hours, turning it occasionally to ensure even marination. Drain any excess liquid.
If desired, garnish the asparagus with orange slices before serving.

Variations

For a different flavor profile, try adding herbs such as dill or parsley to the marinade. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits, such as grapefruit or lime, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When steaming the asparagus, be sure not to overcook it. Asparagus should be crisp-tender, with a slight bite to it. Overcooking can result in mushy asparagus that loses its vibrant green color and fresh flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Marinated asparagus can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It can also be added to salads or pasta dishes for a burst of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the asparagus helps to retain its vibrant color and crisp texture. Be sure to rinse the asparagus under cold water after steaming to stop the cooking process and preserve its freshness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have orange juice on hand, you can substitute with lemon juice or vinegar for a tangy flavor. You can also use olive oil or avocado oil in place of vegetable oil for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinated asparagus can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the marinated asparagus with fresh herbs or citrus slices for a beautiful presentation. Serve on a platter or individual plates for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Marinated asparagus pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, and pasta. It also complements salads and vegetable dishes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover marinated asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bring to room temperature or gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of marinated asparagus contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of marinated asparagus contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of marinated asparagus contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of marinated asparagus contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Asparagus is a nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and potassium. The marinade, which includes orange juice and lemon juice, adds additional vitamin C to the dish.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but individuals with allergies to citrus fruits or asparagus should exercise caution.

Summary

Marinated asparagus is a healthy and flavorful dish, rich in vitamins and minerals. It is low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a great option for those looking to eat a balanced diet.

Summary

Marinated asparagus is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for spring and summer. With a tangy and citrusy marinade, this dish is a refreshing addition to any meal. Enjoy the fresh flavors and vibrant colors of this healthy and nutritious dish.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a rainy afternoon, and my dear friend Margaret had invited me over for tea. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on our cups of Earl Grey, she suddenly disappeared into the pantry and emerged with a bundle of fresh asparagus.

"I'm going to show you how to make my famous marinated asparagus," she declared with a twinkle in her eye.

I watched intently as Margaret trimmed the woody ends off the asparagus spears and blanched them in a pot of boiling water. She then shocked them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant green color.

While the asparagus cooled, Margaret whipped up a simple marinade of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. She tossed the cooled asparagus in the marinade and let it sit for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

When it was time to serve, Margaret arranged the marinated asparagus on a platter and garnished it with a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese. The flavors were out of this world – the tangy balsamic vinegar paired perfectly with the earthy asparagus, and the garlic added a subtle kick of flavor.

I couldn't get enough of this dish, and I begged Margaret to share her recipe with me. She laughed and told me that it was a family secret, passed down from her grandmother to her mother and now to her. But she promised to teach me the recipe, as long as I promised to keep it in the family.

And so, I learned the art of making marinated asparagus from Margaret that rainy afternoon. Over the years, I have made this dish countless times for my family and friends, always receiving rave reviews. It has become a staple at our gatherings, a dish that everyone looks forward to and requests.

I have since made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of brightness and a handful of toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch. But the essence of the dish – the tender asparagus, the tangy marinade, the sprinkle of Parmesan – remains the same.

I have shared this recipe with my daughters and granddaughters, passing down the tradition just as Margaret did for me. It brings me joy to see them recreate this dish in their own kitchens, carrying on the legacy of our family recipe.

As I sit here, recalling that rainy afternoon with Margaret, I can't help but smile. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to connect with my loved ones and create memories that will last a lifetime. And this recipe for marinated asparagus holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bond between generations and the love that we share through food.

So the next time you see a bundle of fresh asparagus at the market, take a chance and try making this dish. Let the flavors of the marinade permeate the tender spears, and savor each bite with the knowledge that you are continuing a tradition that spans generations. Who knows, maybe one day you'll pass this recipe down to your own loved ones, just as I have done with mine.