Asparagus Au Jus
Tender asparagus spears are simmered in flavorful au jus with mushrooms and onions, creating a savory side perfect for elegant dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, melt margarine.
- Saute chopped onion and canned mushrooms until tender.
- Prepare au jus gravy according to package directions.
- Remove onion and mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
- Pour prepared au jus liquid into the skillet; add asparagus shoots.
- Simmer until the asparagus is tender.
- Add the sautéed onion and mushrooms back to the skillet and heat through.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade au jus instead of a mix. You can substitute the asparagus with green beans or broccoli for a different twist. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth for the au jus. To enhance the dish, add garlic or a splash of soy sauce when sautéing the onions and mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Asparagus Au Jus as a side dish for grilled meats or alongside a hearty dish like Bob Haskell'S Smoked Turkey. It pairs well with mashed potatoes or a light salad such as Cranberry Apple Nut Salad. For a complete meal, consider adding a grain like quinoa or rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the asparagus overly soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Au Jus contains roughly 2325 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 251g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2217mg per serving (96% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
Yes, fresh mushrooms can be used instead of canned. Sauté them until they are golden and tender, which adds a fresh flavor. Just ensure they are cooked down sufficiently to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
How do I know when the asparagus is done?
Asparagus is done when it turns bright green and is tender but still has a slight crispness. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes of simmering in the au jus. Be careful not to overcook, as it can become mushy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sautéed onions and mushrooms ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply reheat and add them back to the skillet with the cooked asparagus and au jus.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).