Savory Lemon-Bay Asparagus in a Paper Bag
This Savory Lemon-Bay Asparagus recipe transforms a simple vegetable into an exquisite dish, perfect for any occasion. By steaming the asparagus in a brown paper bag, you preserve its vibrant color, crisp texture, and natural flavors while infusing it with aromatic lemon and bay leaf. This technique allows the asparagus to cook evenly in its own steam, creating a tender yet firm bite. Ideal as a side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or even as a stand-alone vegetarian delight, this recipe is sure to impress your guests with minimal effort.
4
Servings
30
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Asparagus
1 lb (medium, trimmed)
Extra virgin olive oil
to drizzle
Lemon
1/2 (very thinly sliced)
Bay leaf
1
Sea salt
to taste
Black pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) with the rack positioned in the center.
2
Take a large brown paper bag and place the trimmed asparagus inside, ensuring that it fits comfortably without overcrowding.
3
Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus to help prevent the bag from burning and to enhance the flavor.
4
Layer the thinly sliced lemon and bay leaf over the asparagus. Season generously with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
5
Fold over the top of the paper bag several times, creasing the folds tightly to seal in the steam.
6
Place the sealed bag on a baking sheet and drizzle more olive oil on top for added flavor.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, allowing the steam to cook the asparagus until it is tender yet crisp.
8
After 20 minutes, carefully shake the bag to redistribute the seasonings before gently opening it to avoid steam burns.
9
Transfer the steamed asparagus to a serving platter, drizzle with additional olive oil if desired, and serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant side dish.
Nutrition Information
1g
Fat
4.5g
Carbs
2g
Protein
1.75g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Lemon-Bay Asparagus in a Paper Bag?
It is an exquisite dish where asparagus is steamed inside a brown paper bag with lemon and bay leaf to preserve its vibrant color and crisp texture.
What is the unique cooking technique used in this recipe?
The asparagus is cooked inside a sealed brown paper bag in the oven, allowing it to steam in its own juices and aromatic infusions.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What are the primary ingredients for this asparagus dish?
The main ingredients are 1 lb of trimmed asparagus, extra virgin olive oil, half a lemon, one bay leaf, sea salt, and black pepper.
What temperature should the oven be preheated to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long does the asparagus need to bake?
It should bake for approximately 20 minutes until it is tender yet crisp.
Why is a brown paper bag used for cooking?
The paper bag seals in steam, ensuring the vegetable cooks evenly while infusing it with the scents of lemon and bay leaf.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly and vegan-friendly side dish.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 30 calories.
How much fat is in one serving of this asparagus?
There is 1g of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
Each serving contains 4.5g of carbohydrates.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides 2g of protein.
How should I prepare the asparagus before cooking?
The asparagus should be medium-sized and trimmed before being placed in the bag.
How should the lemon be prepared?
The lemon should be sliced very thinly before being layered over the asparagus.
Why do you drizzle olive oil on the paper bag?
Drizzling olive oil over the bag helps prevent it from burning and adds extra flavor.
How do you seal the brown paper bag?
Fold the top of the bag over several times and crease the folds tightly to trap the steam inside.
What should I do once the 20-minute baking time is up?
Carefully shake the bag to redistribute the seasonings before opening it.
Is there a risk when opening the paper bag?
Yes, you should open the bag gently to avoid being burned by the escaping steam.
How should the final dish be served?
Transfer the asparagus to a platter, drizzle with more olive oil if desired, and serve immediately.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
Yes, each serving contains 1.75g of fiber.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, the recipe lists no sugar content.
What kind of salt is recommended?
Sea salt is recommended for seasoning.
Can I use regular black pepper?
The recipe suggests freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor profile.
Where should the oven rack be positioned?
The oven rack should be positioned in the center of the oven.
What can I serve this asparagus with?
It pairs excellently with grilled meats, seafood, or can be enjoyed as a stand-alone vegetable dish.
Does the recipe require a baking sheet?
Yes, you should place the sealed paper bag on a baking sheet before putting it in the oven.
How many bay leaves are needed?
The recipe calls for one bay leaf.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy cooking recipe with minimal effort required.
Is the asparagus soft or crunchy?
The goal is a tender yet firm bite, maintaining a crisp texture.
Can I use this for a healthy diet?
Yes, it is specifically categorized as a healthy side dish.