Asparagus with Toasted Almonds and Garlic

Asparagus with Toasted Almonds and Garlic accompanying couscous and Sauteed Chicken Breasts with Olives.

When navigating the Cooking Pleasures mags in my possession, I came across this recipe. We both enjoy asparagus, I love garlic and Rodney loves nuts. Perfect!

The only thing I did different from the original recipe was omit the sherry vinegar. I had sherry vinegar (unopened, purchased for a recipe I was going to try and since forgotten), but

1. didn't want to have an over-taste explosion like when we had the chix thighs and wild rice and bean salad, where the bean salad made the chix thighs completely bland in comparison
2. was a little overwhelmed with so many things happening simultaneously to make our meal and ultimately thought the asparagus didn't really NEED the sherry vinegar (i.e. lets get this overwith so the asparagus won't be the consistency of baby food when we finally have dinner)

If you have sherry vinegar, then by all means, click the link and get the low-down on the original recipe. Otherwise, keep on:

Asparagus with Toasted Almonds and Garlic

2 lb. thin asparagus

1/4 c olive oil

1/2 c slivered almonds

4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp freshly ground pepper

2 tsp butter

In large skillet, bring 1 inch water to a boil.

Add asparagus; cook 3 minutes or just until tender and bright green.

Remove from heat; drain on paper towel (or not).

Dry same skillet. Add oil; heat over high heat until hot. Add almonds; cook 45 seconds, stirring constantly.

Add asparagus, garlic, salt and pepper; cook 2 minutes or until garlic and almonds are golden brown, stirring often. Stir in butter.

Voila! A new side we both enjoyed -- and we didn't miss the missing sherry vinegar! The asparagus turned out to be a good choice to go with the Sauteed Chicken with Olives.

Next time, I'll be sure to better practice mise-en-place (this recipe is a fast one!) so that the sherry vinegar is incorporated. I'd like to see what it brings.

Cost:

• asparagus: $0.99/lb = $2.15
• almonds: $2
• garlic: $0.50

Total: $4.65. Cool!

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