Marinated Asparagus
Marinated asparagus is a vibrant and tangy dish featuring tender, crisp asparagus spears infused with a zesty marinade of vinegar, lemon, herbs, and spices. Perfect as a refreshing appetizer or side, it offers bright flavors that complement a variety of main courses and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Snap off tough ends of asparagus.
- Remove scales from stalks with a knife or vegetable peeler, if desired.
- Cover asparagus and cook in a small amount of water for 6 to 8 minutes, or until asparagus is crisp-tender.
- Drain the cooked asparagus.
- Combine vegetable oil, white vinegar, lemon juice, chopped green onion, chopped parsley, sugar, dry mustard, salt, and freshly ground pepper in a jar; cover tightly and shake vigorously to make the marinade.
- Place drained asparagus in a shallow container.
- Pour the marinade over the asparagus.
- Cover and chill for 8 hours.
- Before serving, drain off the marinade.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, let the asparagus marinate overnight. If you prefer a lighter taste, consider using olive oil instead of vegetable oil. To add a kick, try incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes into the marinade. This dish can also be made with other vegetables like green beans or bell peppers for a variation on this marinated side.
Serving Suggestions
Marinated asparagus is a refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it a great accompaniment to Uncle Tyler'S Ham Sandwich. Serve it chilled on a platter, or toss it into a salad for a vibrant addition. It can also be enjoyed as a light appetizer or as part of a veggie platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover marinated asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served cold, so there's no need to reheat. If you prefer it warm, briefly sauté the asparagus in a pan to retain its texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Asparagus contains roughly 20 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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. Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before marinating, as excess moisture can dilute the marinade.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
This marinated asparagus recipe is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. Ensure the vegetable oil you use is suitable for your dietary preferences, and enjoy it as a refreshing addition to any vegan meal.
Can I add other ingredients to the marinade?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like minced garlic, a splash of soy sauce for umami, or fresh herbs like dill or basil to the marinade for added depth of 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).