Asparagus With Mushrooms
A vibrant and elegant side dish featuring tender asparagus spears topped with a savory mushroom and almond sauce, subtly flavored with basil. Perfect for entertaining or a special meal, it offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that complement a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the asparagus as directed on the can.
- Drain the asparagus in a small saucepan.
- Combine margarine, sliced mushrooms, slivered almonds, basil, and pepper in the saucepan.
- Beat the mixture well.
- Heat thoroughly until hot.
- Place cooked asparagus on a serving platter.
- Pour the mushroom mixture over the asparagus spears.
- Serve at once.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. If you don’t have slivered almonds, walnuts or pecans can work as alternatives. For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Ensure the asparagus is well-drained to avoid a watery dish. If using fresh asparagus, blanch it briefly before incorporating it into the recipe for optimal tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
This asparagus with mushrooms dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve alongside a light salad or steamed rice for added texture. For a special touch, consider serving with a refreshing drink like Cass' Wedding Day Punch to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the asparagus and mushroom mixture in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent overcooking. Adding a splash of water can help steam the dish and retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus With Mushrooms contains roughly 123 calories, with 5g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (201% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh asparagus instead of canned?
Yes, fresh asparagus can be used! Just trim the ends, blanch briefly in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then follow the recipe as directed. Fresh asparagus will provide a crunchier texture and more vibrant flavor compared to canned.
What can I substitute for slivered almonds?
If you don't have slivered almonds, you can substitute with chopped walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each will add its unique flavor and texture to the dish.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure that any added ingredients, like broth or sauces, are also vegan-friendly. The dish will maintain its delicious flavor while accommodating a vegan diet.
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).