Sesame-Drizzled Asparagus Delight
Experience the taste of the East with this elegant Chilled Asparagus with Sesame Vinaigrette. This vibrant and refreshing dish showcases tender asparagus spears dressed in a flavorful sesame vinaigrette, highlighting the nutty aroma of sesame oil and the tangy zest of rice vinegar. Perfect as a cold or room-temperature side, this dish complements a wide range of Oriental cuisine and grilled meats, making it an ideal addition to any meal. Best of all, it can be prepared in advance, allowing for effortless entertaining and meal preparation. Enjoy the delightful crunch and bright flavors of this sophisticated vegetable side dish that is sure to impress your guests!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Asparagus
2 lbs (Trimmed)
Sesame oil
8 teaspoons (None)
Rice vinegar
4 teaspoons (None)
Soy sauce
4 teaspoons (None)
Sugar
1 teaspoon (None)
Toasted sesame seeds
to taste (None)
Instructions
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the trimmed asparagus and cook for approximately 4 minutes, or until just crisp-tender.
2
Once cooked, immediately drain the asparagus and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Ensure that the asparagus is well-drained and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3
Arrange the asparagus elegantly on a serving platter, laying the spears flat for presentation.
4
In a small bowl, combine the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Whisk together until well blended. Taste the dressing and season with salt and pepper as desired.
5
If preparing in advance, the asparagus and the dressing can be made a day ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
6
When ready to serve, drizzle the sesame vinaigrette generously over the chilled asparagus. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sesame-Drizzled Asparagus Delight?
It is a refreshing and elegant chilled side dish featuring tender asparagus spears dressed in a nutty sesame vinaigrette with flavors of rice vinegar and soy sauce.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 8 servings.
What are the main ingredients for the sesame vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette consists of sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar.
How long should the asparagus be boiled?
The asparagus should be boiled for approximately 4 minutes until it is just crisp-tender.
What is the first step in preparing the asparagus?
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding the trimmed asparagus.
How do I stop the asparagus from overcooking?
Immediately drain the cooked asparagus and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Can I make Sesame-Drizzled Asparagus Delight in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the asparagus and the dressing a day ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator.
How should the asparagus be dried before serving?
After rinsing, the asparagus should be well-drained and patted dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve it chilled or at room temperature, drizzled with the vinaigrette and sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds.
What does the dressing taste like?
It has a nutty aroma from the sesame oil and a tangy zest from the rice vinegar, balanced with a hint of sugar and savory soy sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for a healthy diet?
Yes, it is a healthy vegetable side dish that uses fresh ingredients and heart-healthy sesame oil.
What foods pair well with this asparagus dish?
It complements a wide range of Oriental cuisine and grilled meats.
How many total ingredients are needed?
The recipe requires 6 main ingredients: asparagus, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and toasted sesame seeds.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How do I arrange the asparagus for presentation?
Arrange the spears elegantly flat on a serving platter.
What is the recommended amount of asparagus for this recipe?
You will need 2 lbs of trimmed asparagus.
Can I adjust the seasoning of the dressing?
Yes, you should taste the dressing and season with salt and pepper as desired before serving.
What is the preparation for the sesame seeds?
The recipe calls for toasted sesame seeds to be sprinkled on top for added crunch and flavor.
How much sesame oil is required?
The recipe calls for 8 teaspoons of sesame oil.
Is there sugar in the dressing?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of sugar is used to balance the flavors of the vinaigrette.
What type of vinegar is used?
Rice vinegar is used to provide a tangy zest.
Does this dish contain soy?
Yes, the vinaigrette includes 4 teaspoons of soy sauce.
What is the texture of the asparagus?
The asparagus should be cooked until it is crisp-tender, providing a delightful crunch.
Is this dish served hot?
No, it is intended to be a chilled or room-temperature salad.
How is the dressing mixed?
Combine the ingredients in a small bowl and whisk them together until well blended.
What category does this recipe fall under?
It is categorized as a Vegetable dish.
Can I use this for meal prep?
Yes, because it can be made in advance, it is ideal for meal preparation and entertaining.
Do I need to trim the asparagus?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 2 lbs of trimmed asparagus.
How much rice vinegar should I use?
The recipe requires 4 teaspoons of rice vinegar.
Is this dish considered Asian cuisine?
Yes, it is designed to experience the taste of the East and pair with Oriental dishes.