If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for family dinners, look no further than this ground beef and asparagus recipe. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with flavor. The combination of tender ground beef and fresh asparagus creates a harmonious balance that will delight your taste buds. This meal is ideal for spring and summer dinners, offering a light and satisfying option.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to making the perfect ground beef and asparagus recipe, choosing the right ingredients is crucial.
Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef. Lean meat reduces the fat content and keeps the dish light. Washington Beef Commission offers high-quality beef that’s perfect for this recipe.
Asparagus: Choose fresh, green asparagus. Look for firm stalks with closed tips to ensure freshness. Asparagus adds a crisp texture and a touch of sweetness.
Other Ingredients: Fresh garlic and minced shallots are essential for enhancing the flavor. Use high-quality olive oil for sautéing, and don’t forget shredded Parmesan cheese for a final touch.
Seasoning Questions
Seasoning can make or break a dish. Here are some tips:
Salt and Pepper: Simple yet effective, these are the base of any seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Garlic and Shallots: Minced garlic and shallots add depth and a rich aroma. Sauté them until golden for the best flavor.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the dish. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Recommended Cooking Equipment
To ensure your ground beef and asparagus recipe turns out perfectly, use the right equipment:
Nonstick Skillet: A nonstick skillet is ideal for browning the ground beef without sticking. It helps in cooking evenly and makes cleanup easier.
Slotted Spoon: Use a slotted spoon to remove the beef from the skillet, leaving the drippings behind. This keeps the beef crisp and allows you to use the drippings for sautéing the asparagus and other ingredients.
Boiling Salted Water: Cook the asparagus in boiling salted water to maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture. Blanching it quickly in boiling water helps in retaining its nutrients.
How to Use Equipment Effectively
Using your cooking equipment effectively is key to achieving the best results.
Nonstick Skillet: Preheat the skillet before adding ground beef. This ensures even cooking and prevents the meat from steaming. Cook the beef in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Slotted Spoon: When removing the ground beef, use the slotted spoon to let excess fat drain off. This helps in keeping the dish light and healthy.
Boiling Salted Water: Boil water with a generous amount of salt before adding asparagus. Salted water enhances the flavor and helps in maintaining the vibrant green color of asparagus.
Comprehensive Ground Beef and Asparagus Recipe
Ground Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss
Ground beef and asparagus recipe is a delightful dish that brings together the hearty flavors of beef and the fresh, crisp taste of asparagus. It's a quick, easy meal that I love to prepare for family dinners, especially during spring and summer. The blend of ingredients creates a harmonious and satisfying experience every time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz bow-tie pasta
- Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh parsley
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the bow-tie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Ground Beef:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the beef to a plate, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Add minced garlic and shallots. Sauté until fragrant and golden.
- Add the asparagus and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Ingredients:
- Return the ground beef to the skillet with the asparagus.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
- Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese and mix well. Add red pepper flakes if using.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 450Total Fat: 15gCarbohydrates: 50gFiber: 5gProtein: 30g
Serving Suggestions and Suitable Side Dishes
This ground beef and asparagus recipe pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a refreshing drink, a chilled glass of white wine or lemonade complements the flavors well.
Useful Cooking Tips
- Preheat the Skillet: Always preheat your skillet before adding ingredients to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the ground beef in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- Blanch the Asparagus: Blanching asparagus in boiling salted water helps maintain its color and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and shallots enhance the flavor significantly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy when combined with the other ingredients.
- Not Draining the Beef Properly: Use a slotted spoon to remove excess fat from the cooked ground beef, keeping the dish light.
- Under-seasoning: Be generous with seasoning. Properly seasoned ingredients make a huge difference in taste.
Conclusion
This ground beef and asparagus recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious option for family dinners. Its light and flavorful combination makes it perfect for spring and summer meals. With the right ingredients and a few simple tips, you can create a dish that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.