Asparagus With Mushrooms And Cilantro
Bright, fresh asparagus and mushrooms are tossed with fragrant cilantro and shallots, creating a quick, flavorful side perfect for any light meal or dinner gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the asparagus into 1-inch diagonal pieces.
- Lightly coat the bottom of a nonstick pan with vegetable spray and preheat over medium-high heat for 30 seconds.
- Add the mushrooms and cook, tossing and shaking until lightly browned.
- Add the asparagus and shallots to the pan and continue tossing for about 1 minute.
- Season with salt, white pepper, and chopped fresh cilantro.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or a splash of lemon juice while cooking. If you don't have fresh cilantro, parsley or basil can be used as substitutes. Make sure not to overcook the asparagus; it should still be vibrant and slightly crisp. You can also try using other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great choice for a light main course. Serve alongside fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal. For a refreshing drink, consider serving it with Iced Tea And Lemon to balance the flavors. A light vinaigrette can also enhance the dish if drizzled just before serving.
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 prevent sticking. You can also microwave for a quick option, but be cautious not to overcook the asparagus.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus With Mushrooms And Cilantro contains roughly 172 calories, with 6g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value) and iron (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1457mg per serving (63% 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, you can use frozen asparagus if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What types of mushrooms work best in this recipe?
Button mushrooms are commonly used, but you can also experiment with cremini or shiitake mushrooms for a deeper flavor. Just make sure to slice them uniformly for even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for those following vegan recipes, offering a delicious way to enjoy fresh vegetables.
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).