Savor the vibrant flavors of Italy with this "Low Fat Asparagus Italian Style" recipe, a quick and healthy side dish that's bursting with Mediterranean charm. Tender-crisp asparagus and sweet cherry tomatoes are sautΓ©ed in a touch of heart-healthy olive oil, infused with the aromatic goodness of garlic, and finished with a zesty drizzle of balsamic vinegar and lemon juice. A sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and a hint of red pepper flakes elevate this dish with a savory, bold flairβall while keeping it light and low in fat. Ready in just 22 minutes, it's the perfect addition to weeknight dinners or a delicious complement to whole-grain bread and a crisp green salad for a balanced, flavor-packed meal.
1. Wash the asparagus and trim off the woody ends. Pat dry.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside.
3. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
4. Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sautΓ© for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
6. Add the asparagus spears to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp.
7. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly.
8. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and lemon juice over the asparagus and tomatoes, stirring gently to coat.
9. Sprinkle the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper evenly over the vegetables. Toss gently.
10. Transfer the cooked asparagus and tomatoes to a serving platter.
11. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top before serving.
12. Serve warm as a side dish or pair with whole-grain bread and a green salad for a light meal.
Calories |
450 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 32.4 g | 42% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.4 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 10 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 787 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 32.1 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.6 g | 49% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.6 g | ||
| Protein | 17.6 g | 35% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 276 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 12.2 mg | 68% | |
| Potassium | 1560 mg | 33% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.