Asparagus With Ginger

Stir-fry asparagus is healthy and simple to prepare, yet very delicious.  It is a beautiful dish to serve and makes a great appetizer or a side dish.

Recipe serves 4.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of asparagus, approx. 1 pound
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seed (jeera)
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Method:

1. Holding the stalk at both ends, bend gently until it breaks on its own.  Discard the hard portion of the stalk. 
2. Cut the remaining asparagus spears diagonally into 2 inch pieces.
3. Bring oil to medium heat in a large frying pan that can hold all the asparagus. 
4. Add cumin seeds and wait till they crack. Then add asparagus, ginger, lemon juice, salt and black pepper.
5. Stir-fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until asparagus are tender but still crunch.
6. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Serving Options:

1. Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese on cooked asparagus, just prior to serving. If the asparagus is warm enough, the cheese will melt and be delious.

2.  Add 1 tablespoon sliced almonds half way through cooking the asparagus (step 5 of Method).  This will make a beautiful presentation and taste great.