Chinese Asparagus
A quick and healthy Chinese-style asparagus dish featuring tender diagonally sliced asparagus topped with crunchy slivered almonds, perfect as a side or light main for vegetarians.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut asparagus diagonally into 1/4 to 1/2-inch slices.
- Heat oil in a heavy skillet.
- Add asparagus and sprinkle with salt.
- Cover the pan and cook for 3 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Serve topped with slivered almonds (optional).
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, try using sesame oil instead of regular oil for a nutty taste. If you want to add protein, consider tossing in some cooked shrimp or chicken. For crunch, you can substitute slivered almonds with toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds. Make sure not to overcook the asparagus to maintain its vibrant color and crispness. This dish is also great as part of a larger Chinese recipes spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chinese Asparagus as a side dish alongside grilled meats or tofu for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Sweet-N-Sour Spareribs or as part of a veggie medley in a stir-fry. For a refreshing twist, try serving it alongside a Chinese Asparagus Salad. This dish also complements flavors from Asian-style rice or noodles.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently stir-fry in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking. The asparagus can lose its texture if reheated too long, so keep an eye on it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Asparagus contains roughly 1010 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% 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 its flavor and texture, you can use frozen asparagus. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can make the dish soggy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat to your Chinese Asparagus, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha while cooking. For an authentic flavor, a splash of chili oil can also enhance the dish's spice level without overpowering its fresh taste.
What are some good vegetarian options to pair with this dish?
This dish goes well with a variety of vegetarian options. Consider pairing it with Vegan recipes like a tofu stir-fry or vegetable dumplings. It can also complement a hearty grain bowl with quinoa or brown rice for a satisfying meal.
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).