Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful side dish to add some zing to your weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Indian-spiced asparagus recipe is ready in under 20 minutes and packs a delicious punch. It’s the perfect blend of simple, healthy ingredients and vibrant Indian flavors, making it a fantastic addition to any meal, from curries to grilled meats. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe is perfect for you. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this delicious and healthy meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
-
Prep the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus spears thoroughly under cold water and trim off the tough bottom ends. Snap them off at the point where they naturally bend – this is a great way to ensure you only use the tender parts.
-
Sauté the Spices: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground cumin and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. This step unlocks the cumin's full flavor potential, making your dish even more aromatic.
-
Add the Spices and Asparagus: Stir in the turmeric powder, garam masala, red chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant and well combined. Add the asparagus spears to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
-
Cook the Asparagus: Cook the asparagus for 5-7 minutes, or until it's tender-crisp and bright green. Avoid overcooking, as this will make the asparagus mushy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
-
Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. This adds a delightful tanginess that perfectly complements the warm spices. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately as a delicious side dish.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder to control the spiciness. For a milder dish, use less; for a spicier kick, add more.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or peas for a more substantial side dish. Adding a handful of cherry tomatoes in the last few minutes of cooking would also be delightful.
- Protein Boost: To make this a complete meal, add cooked chickpeas, lentils, or paneer (Indian cheese) to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Garlic and Ginger: For an extra layer of flavor, add a minced clove of garlic and a small piece of grated ginger along with the cumin.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 60-70
- Fat: 4-5g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This Indian-spiced asparagus recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients and bold flavors can create a truly memorable dish. It’s quick, healthy, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want a delicious and nutritious meal on the table. Enjoy!