Stir-Fried Asparagus is a delightful dish that showcases the delicious flavors of one of Carolyn Sutter’s favorite vegetables, asparagus. Growing up in Stockton, California, Carolyn was immersed in the annual festival celebrating this versatile and nutritious veggie. Stir-frying asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and tender texture, making it an irresistible and quick side dish.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1½ pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 3 tablespoons chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds, toasted
PREPARATIONS:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the butter and canola oil over medium-high heat until the butter is melted.
- Add the trimmed and cut asparagus to the skillet and stir-fry for 2 minutes, ensuring the pieces are coated with the butter and oil mixture.
- Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, soy sauce, and pepper, combining the flavors with the asparagus. Cover the skillet and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the asparagus reaches the desired tenderness.
- Once the asparagus is tender, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the stir-fried asparagus with toasted slivered almonds, adding a delightful nutty crunch to the dish.
YIELD: 4 servings
COOKING TIME: Prep/Total Time: 20 minutes
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Be mindful not to overcook the asparagus, as it should remain slightly crisp and vibrant in color.
TIPS:
- To toast the slivered almonds, simply heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma.
In conclusion, Stir-Fried Asparagus is a delightful dish that brings out the best of this beloved vegetable, making it an ideal side dish or a quick addition to any meal. Carolyn Sutter’s fondness for asparagus was nurtured in Stockton, California, where an annual festival celebrates the versatility and deliciousness of this nutritious vegetable.
The recipe for Stir-Fried Asparagus is simple and quick, allowing the natural sweetness and tender texture of asparagus to shine. The stir-frying process, with a perfect combination of butter and canola oil, ensures that each piece is coated and cooked to perfection.
Enhancing the flavors further, a dash of chicken broth, lemon juice, soy sauce, and pepper brings a delightful blend of tanginess and savory goodness to the asparagus. This quick cooking method retains the vibrant color and slight crispness of the asparagus, ensuring a delightful bite with every mouthful.
To add an exquisite touch, the dish is garnished with toasted slivered almonds, infusing it with a nutty crunch that complements the freshness of the asparagus.
Whether served as a side dish or paired with your favorite main course, Stir-Fried Asparagus is a delightful addition to any dining experience. The dish celebrates the essence of asparagus while offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
Embrace the simplicity and versatility of Stir-Fried Asparagus, and let this beloved vegetable take center stage on your plate. Whether enjoyed as part of a festive gathering or a simple weekday meal, this dish is sure to be a hit with its flavorsome and wholesome appeal.
