Curried Asparagus
Creamy curried asparagus baked with bread crumbs and margarine offers a flavorful vegetarian side, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cooked and strained asparagus in a shallow baking dish.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of margarine with bread crumbs and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, blend salt, pepper, flour, curry, and remaining margarine until smooth.
- Gradually add milk to the mixture and cook until thickened.
- Stir in minced onion and pour the sauce over the asparagus.
- Sprinkle with the bread crumbs mixture.
- Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or turmeric to the sauce for an extra kick. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter works well as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour. Fresh asparagus is key; look for bright green, firm stalks. You can also try this recipe with other vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Curried Asparagus makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or fish. Serve it alongside quinoa or rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Kathy'S Buckeyes for a sweet finish. For a light lunch, consider adding it to a salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette. This dish is also a great addition to a vegetarian spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Curried Asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring to ensure even heating. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curried Asparagus contains roughly 165 calories, with 5g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1847mg per serving (80% 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 asparagus in a pinch. Just thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the baking dish. Keep in mind that frozen asparagus may cook faster, so adjust your baking time accordingly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To elevate the spice level, you can add more curry powder or incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, ensuring the heat levels suit your preference without overpowering the dish.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce?
Yes! To make a dairy-free version, substitute regular milk with almond, soy, or oat milk. You can also replace margarine with a dairy-free butter alternative. Ensure your bread crumbs are also dairy-free to keep the entire dish compliant with your dietary needs.
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).