Asparagus Medley
A vibrant medley of crisp-tender asparagus, zucchini, and green onions stir-fried with water chestnuts and pimientos, flavored with soy sauce and a hint of sugar—perfect for a quick, healthy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a wok or skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the asparagus, zucchini, green onions, and celery to the wok.
- Cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Add the water chestnuts, pimiento strips, soy sauce, sugar, and pepper to the wok.
- Stir until all ingredients are heated through and well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant Asparagus Medley, try adding a splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness. If you don't have sesame oil, corn oil works well too. You can substitute zucchini with yellow squash or bell peppers for variety. To make it spicier, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes. For a heartier dish, serve it over rice or quinoa.
Serving Suggestions
This Asparagus Medley is a delightful side that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. Consider serving it alongside a light salad, such as Spicy Cucumber Salad, for a refreshing meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch or as part of a vegan spread with other vegetable dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Asparagus Medley can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, to prevent overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Medley contains roughly 156 calories, with 7g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2193mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
While fresh asparagus is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the wok, as it may require less cooking time.
What can I use instead of soy sauce?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute for soy sauce. You can also use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor. If you want a soy-free alternative, try using a mix of balsamic vinegar and a pinch of salt.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Asparagus Medley, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha into the mix. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes just before serving to elevate the spice level to your liking.
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).