Elevate your weeknight dinners with this vibrant recipe for Spicy Asparagus or Green Beans—an irresistible side dish that’s ready in under 20 minutes. Packed with bold flavors, this quick stir-fry features tender-crisp asparagus or green beans infused with garlic, red chili flakes, and a tantalizing soy-sesame glaze, balanced by a hint of honey or maple syrup. This simple yet sophisticated dish is garnished with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and makes the perfect accompaniment to any main course, from grilled chicken to tofu. Bursting with spice, umami, and a touch of sweetness, this dish is ideal for those seeking easy-to-make, plant-forward recipes with a kick. Perfect for busy schedules, it’s equally suited for casual dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.
Wash and trim the asparagus or green beans. For asparagus, snap off the woody ends. For green beans, trim the stems.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the asparagus or green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic-infused oil.
Sprinkle the red chili flakes over the vegetables and continue to stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the asparagus or green beans. They should be tender-crisp and bright green.
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and the vegetables are well coated.
Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Serve immediately as a side dish and enjoy!
Calories |
537 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.8 g | 56% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.6 g | 33% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 590 mg | 26% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 30.8 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.8 g | 42% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.3 g | ||
| Protein | 13.7 g | 27% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 166 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 12.0 mg | 67% | |
| Potassium | 1142 mg | 24% | |
*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.