Asparagus with Orange Sour Cream

Remember when we talked about getting side-tracked when planning suppers? Such was the case with the Asparagus we kept buying at the market. One thing about vegetables in our house, they never seem to go to waste. While they might not always be transformed into their intended dish, we do manage to enjoy fresh asparagus.

We eat a lot of asparagus in our house. At least once a week we have asparagus next to something or over something or under something. I love asparagus. Last Saint Patrick’s Day I discovered Pickled Asparagus when putting together our Pub Salad.

Maybe it was the salty brine of Pickled Asparagus, but I gobbled them up. A little pricey for a snack, but great to include in the salad. Hum, I wonder if it would be more cost effective to make my own Pickled Asparagus. Oh, but that’s a conversation for another day.

Today it’s all about Asparagus and Oranges. My own word of caution is go lightly with the cayenne pepper. Add a dash, then wait for the spice to blossom into the sour cream sauce before adding more. It will sneak up on you if you aren’t careful.

Asparagus with Orange Sour Cream
1 lb fresh Asparagus, trimmed
1/4 cup Sour Cream
1 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons fresh Orange Juice
1 teaspoon Orange Zest
Dash cayenne pepper

Trim the asparagus of any woody ends.  Place the asparagus in a skillet with a small amount of water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and cook for about 10 minutes or until crisp-tender and just beginning to char. If the asparagus is browning too quickly, add more water a little at a time and allow the spears to “steam” before searing.

Meanwhile, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, orange juice, zest and cayenne. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Arrange cooked asparagus on a small serving platter; drizzle with orange sauce. Serve with remaining orange sauce in a small bowl for additional cream as desired.

This asparagus is delicious with Vegetable Rice Pilaf and Marmalade Glazed Chicken.

Author: Rosemarie's Kitchen

I'm a wife, mother, grandmother and avid home cook.I believe in eating healthy whenever possible, while still managing to indulge in life's pleasures. View all posts by Rosemarie's Kitchen