Dilly Asparagus
A vibrant, tangy asparagus dish featuring a dill and vinegar marinade, perfect as a refreshing appetizer or side for spring gatherings and light meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen asparagus according to package directions, omitting salt; drain.
- Combine vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, parsley, dill, and minced onion in a jar; cover tightly and shake vigorously to mix.
- Place the cooked asparagus in a shallow container.
- Pour the marinade over the asparagus; cover and chill for 8 hours.
- Drain the asparagus and arrange on a serving platter.
- Drain the pimiento mixture using a slotted spoon and spoon over the asparagus before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresh twist, consider substituting the frozen asparagus with fresh spears if available; just blanch them briefly. You can also swap out the olive oil for avocado oil for a different flavor profile. If you like more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. For a vegan version, ensure the sugar used is plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
Dilly Asparagus makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken, and pairs beautifully with Rich Beef Stew With Rice. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or as part of a cold buffet. Garnish with additional fresh dill or parsley for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Dilly Asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the asparagus in a microwave to preserve its crunch and flavor. Avoid boiling to prevent sogginess, or enjoy it cold as a refreshing salad component.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dilly Asparagus contains roughly 248 calories, with 9g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), iron (51% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 20g 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors develop even more when the asparagus is marinated overnight. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to drain it before serving to avoid excess liquid on your platter.
What can I substitute for fresh dill?
If you don't have fresh dill on hand, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried dill weed instead. While fresh dill offers a brighter flavor, dried dill will still impart a nice taste. Adjust the quantity to your preference, keeping in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely add other vegetables to enhance the dish. Consider incorporating blanched baby carrots or sliced bell peppers for added color and flavor. Just ensure that the additional vegetables are cooked to a similar tenderness as the asparagus for a uniform texture.
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).