Garlic Asparagus with Nutritional Yeast
Almost cheesy and slightly nutty, this nutrient packed ingredient seems to mystify us every time we use it. It adds a depth that reminds me of something I’ve had once, but can’t quite put my finger on. It’s the “secret ingredient” people will be asking about. Be careful though, this stuff is addicting. Nutritional yeast is packed with some B-complex vitamins and sometimes B12 (depending on if it is fortified or not), which makes it a great addition if you are a vegetarian. Did you know it is also a complete protein? That means it has all nine amino acids the human body cannot produce. In addition, fortified nutritional yeast provides a good bit of iron as well which is another important nutrient present in meat. Triple win for vegetarians and vegans, but heck, I’ll take it too! I made and enjoyed this recipe as is. In fact I ended up eating all of it because I just couldn’t get enough. It didn’t need anything else with it. The flavor and nutritional content was on point, so no side of protein was necessary. I added a bit while cooking, and then topped with more as I ate. This is the third recipe I’ve made with this fantastic flaky substance, and have yet to be disappointed. Give it a try, even if you are not vegetarian, because this condiment is a cheesy, creamy, mysteriously delicious addition to anything you decide to sprinkle it on.
Enjoy!
What You’ll Need:
- 1 bundle asparagus, washed, trimmed, and *cut
- 1 bulb garlic (about 6 cloves)
- 1 tsp nutritional yeast, plus more for topping
- 2 T grass-fed butter or oil
- sea salt to taste
What to Do:
- Trim asparagus by cutting off about 1-2 inches of the tough end. *Cut in half once, then in half long ways.
- Heat 2 T butter or oil in a sautée pan and add your cut asparagus. Sautée on medium-low heat for about 7 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add minced garlic, cover, and let steam for a few minutes. Remove lid and mix. Allow to cook for a couple more minutes or until it is slightly wilted and has some nice browned bits.
- Add nutritional yeast and salt and mix to incorporate both.
- Serve topped with more nutritional yeast as desired.
Serves 1 as a meal, or 2 as a side
