Looking for a side dish that’s both healthy and quick to prepare? Your search ends with our low carb asparagus pressure cooker recipe. This versatile dish highlights the natural flavors of asparagus, enhanced with subtle spices, ensuring you can enjoy a delightful, carb-conscious meal effortlessly.
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Equipments
- Pressure Cooker
- Steamer Basket (optional)
- Measuring Spoons
- Cutting Board
- Knife
How to Make Deliciously Easy Low Carb Asparagus in the Pressure Cooker – Step By Step
Step 1: Trim and Prepare Asparagus
Begin by rinsing the asparagus under cool running water to remove any dirt. After cleaning, cut off the woody ends of the stalks. You can do this by gently bending each spear until it snaps at its natural breaking point. This ensures you retain only the tender parts of the asparagus. Arrange these prepared spears on a cutting board as you get ready for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Set your pressure cooker to the ‘Sauté’ mode. Drizzle the olive oil into the pot and let it heat for a minute. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. You will need to stir continuously to make sure it doesn’t burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor.
Step 3: Pressure Cook Asparagus
Place the steamer basket inside your pressure cooker and add the cut asparagus on top. If you don’t have a steamer basket, you can directly place the asparagus into the pot. Add a splash of chicken broth for additional moisture and flavor. Cancel the ‘Sauté’ mode, secure the lid, and set the pressure cooker to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ mode on high for precisely 1 minute. Once the time is up, quickly release the pressure using the vent.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Seasoning
Once the pressure is fully released, open the lid and remove the cooked asparagus into a serving dish. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus and, if desired, top with grated parmesan cheese for a tangy finish. Mix gently to combine all flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Deliciously Easy Low Carb Asparagus in the Pressure Cooker
Serve this yummy asparagus dish warm, alongside grilled chicken or steak for a complete, gourmet meal that impresses both family and guests alike. You can also toss it lightly with almonds or pine nuts for added texture and elegance.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Ensure even cooking by cutting the asparagus into uniform sizes. Experiment with seasoning by adding herbs like dill or thyme. For a spicy kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Packed with Power: High-Protein Asparagus Delight
Enhance your asparagus dish by incorporating grilled chicken or smoked salmon. These proteins not only boost the meal’s nutritional value but also elevate its filling factor, keeping you satisfied and nourished.
Feel free to add a soft-cooked egg on top. Cutting into the silky yolk runs through the asparagus, enriching and providing an indulgent twist to your nutritious dish.
Lean Pleasure: Low Carb, High Taste Asparagus
If the focus is remaining strictly low carb, the basic version of the recipe remains an absolute treat. Asparagus in the pressure cooker maintains its vibrant color and tender-crisp texture while having minimal carbohydrates.
For an extra low-carb flair, wrap asparagus spears in thin slices of prosciutto before pressure cooking. This adds a salty complement to the vegetable’s natural sweetness while keeping with the low-carb theme.
Storage Instructions
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a microwave or sauté pan for a quick refresh. For best taste, avoid freezing as asparagus can become mushy upon thawing.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe? Yes, but adjust the cooking time to 2 minutes.
- What can I substitute for chicken broth? Vegetable broth or water are excellent alternatives.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Ensure all spices and broths do not contain gluten.
- Can I add cheese to the asparagus? Yes, parmesan cheese adds a delicious, tangy note.
- How do I know when asparagus is cooked? The spears should be tender but still crisp.
Bring Asparagus To Your Plate: Share and Enjoy!
This low carb asparagus pressure cooker recipe is sure to become a favorite, offering a perfect balance of flavor, ease, and health. Try it out, share with friends, and leave a comment below about your experience! Happy cooking!