Hot "Buttered" Asparagus(Vegetable)
A vibrant vegetable side featuring tender asparagus topped with flavorful hot bread crumbs infused with butter and hot pepper sauce. This dish offers a delightful crunch and a spicy kick, perfect for those who enjoy a combination of fresh produce and bold, savory flavors. Ideal for spring or summer meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash asparagus and trim tough parts of stems; set aside. Prepare bread crumbs; put in blender or food processor to make fine crumbs.
- Steam asparagus in a small amount of water until tender.
- Melt margarine in a pan; add hot pepper sauce.
- Add bread crumbs and salt; sauté until golden.
- Place well-drained asparagus in a serving dish; top with hot bread crumbs.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using real butter instead of corn oil margarine. If you want to make this dish vegan, substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter alternative. Fresh bread crumbs work best, but you can also use store-bought if you're in a pinch. To enhance the heat, add more hot pepper sauce according to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
This dish makes a delightful side for grilled meats like Barbecue Chicken Or Pork Chops or can be served alongside a refreshing Garden Pasta Salad for a complete meal. Drizzle with a bit of extra hot pepper sauce for those who enjoy a spicier kick. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover hot 'buttered' asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply steam the asparagus lightly to retain its texture and flavor, or microwave it for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on medium power, being careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot "Buttered" Asparagus(Vegetable) contains roughly 75 calories, with 4g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2584mg per serving (112% 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?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but be sure to thaw it before cooking. Frozen asparagus may release more moisture, so adjust steaming time accordingly to avoid overcooking. The flavor and texture will differ slightly from fresh, but it will still be delicious.
What can I substitute for bread crumbs?
If you don't have bread crumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers or panko for a crunchier texture. Alternatively, almond flour or ground oats can be used for a gluten-free option, providing a different flavor profile while still adding a nice texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more shakes of hot pepper sauce to the margarine mixture. You could also incorporate red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers for an extra kick. Adjust to your taste, ensuring it complements the asparagus without overwhelming its natural flavor.
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).