Garlic-Infused Asparagus and Green Bean Medley
This Garlic-Infused Asparagus and Green Bean Medley is the epitome of fresh flavors and simplicity. Perfect for showcasing your garden's bounty, this vibrant dish can be prepared in just a matter of minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful side for entertaining. The combination of tender asparagus, crisp green beans, and optional sweet baby carrots is sautéed with fragrant garlic for a dish that's not only visually stunning but also deliciously versatile. Serve it hot, at room temperature, or chilled—this medley is a fabulous addition to any meal. Whether paired with grilled meats or served as a light lunch, the freshness of these vegetables and a hint of balsamic vinegar elevate this easy-to-make recipe to something special.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh Asparagus
2 cups (cut into 1-inch sections)
Fresh Green Beans
2 cups (snapped into 1-inch sections)
Minced Garlic
2 tablespoons
Kosher Salt
1 teaspoon
Fresh Ground Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon
Baby Carrots
1/4 cup (cut into strips (optional))
Olive Oil
3 tablespoons
Balsamic Vinegar
1 teaspoon ((optional))
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing your vegetables: cut the asparagus into 1-inch sections and snap the green beans into similar-sized pieces. If using, slice the baby carrots into strips.
2
Heat a heavy-bottomed sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the pan evenly.
3
Introduce the asparagus and green beans (and carrots, if using) to the pan. Stir the vegetables well to ensure they are coated in the oil.
4
Sprinkle with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper. Add the minced garlic to the pan.
5
Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become lightly browned but not burnt, while the vegetables begin to soften.
6
Once cooked to your desired tenderness, transfer the vegetables to a serving platter.
7
If desired, finish with a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra flavor boost. Serve immediately or allow to cool before serving. This dish can be enjoyed hot, at room temperature, or cold.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Garlic-Infused Asparagus and Green Bean Medley?
It is a vibrant dish featuring tender asparagus, crisp green beans, and optional sweet baby carrots sautéed with fragrant garlic and olive oil.
How much asparagus do I need for this recipe?
You will need 2 cups of fresh asparagus, cut into 1-inch sections.
How should I prepare the green beans?
The green beans should be snapped into 1-inch sections, totaling 2 cups.
What optional vegetable can be added to the medley?
You can add 1/4 cup of baby carrots cut into strips for extra color and sweetness.
What is the recommended amount of garlic?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of minced garlic.
What type of oil is used for sautéing?
Three tablespoons of olive oil are used to coat the pan and sauté the vegetables.
What heat setting should I use to cook the vegetables?
A heavy-bottomed sauté pan should be heated over medium-high heat.
How long does it take to cook the vegetables and garlic?
The vegetables and garlic should be stirred continuously for about 1-2 minutes.
How can I tell when the garlic is ready?
The garlic should be lightly browned but not burnt.
At what temperatures can this dish be served?
This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed hot, at room temperature, or chilled.
What seasoning is required?
The dish is seasoned with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper.
Is there a recommended garnish or finishing touch?
Yes, you can finish the dish with a splash (about 1 teaspoon) of balsamic vinegar for an extra flavor boost.
What type of pan is best for this recipe?
A heavy-bottomed sauté pan is recommended to ensure even heating.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is designed to be prepared in just a matter of minutes, making it ideal for quick meals.
Can I serve this with grilled meats?
Absolutely, it is described as a fabulous addition to grilled meats or as a light lunch.
How many ingredients are listed in this recipe?
There are a total of 8 ingredients, including optional items like baby carrots and balsamic vinegar.
Should the vegetables be coated in oil?
Yes, after adding the vegetables to the hot oil, you should stir them well to ensure they are evenly coated.
What is the texture of the green beans in this dish?
The green beans are intended to remain crisp.
Is this dish good for using fresh garden produce?
Yes, it is specifically mentioned as being perfect for showcasing a garden's bounty.
When should the salt and pepper be added?
Sprinkle the kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper after introducing the vegetables to the pan.
What category does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as a vegetable dish and a healthy side.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The specific number of servings is not provided, but it uses 4 cups of primary vegetables.
What is the preparation method for the garlic?
The garlic should be minced before being added to the pan.
Does the recipe contain any cholesterol?
Based on the provided nutritional data, the cholesterol content is null.
How should I cut the asparagus?
The asparagus should be cut into 1-inch sections.
What is the preparation for the baby carrots?
If you choose to use baby carrots, they should be sliced into strips.
When should the balsamic vinegar be added?
It should be added as a finishing touch after the vegetables have been transferred to a serving platter.
Can this be a light lunch on its own?
Yes, it can be served as a light lunch or a side dish.
Should the pan be hot before adding oil?
Yes, the instructions state to heat the pan and then add the olive oil once it is hot.
Is it necessary to stir the vegetables while cooking?
Yes, you should stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to prevent the garlic from burning and to soften the vegetables.