Recipes: Asparagus, Curry Mayonnaise and Herbed Cashew Dip

May 26, 2021 at 2:26PM
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Serve blanched asparagus with herbed cashew dip. (Mette Nielsen • Special to the Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Asparagus

Serves 2 to 4, but is easily doubled or tripled.

These make a terrific appetizer or wonderful side dish. They may be prepared a day ahead and held in the refrigerator, then served with one or both of these dips on the side. From Beth Dooley.

• 1 lb. asparagus

Directions

To blanch the asparagus, snap off the bottom ends at the natural bending point. Fill a large, deep bowl with ice and cold water and set aside. Bring a large, deep skillet of lightly salted water to a boil. Drop in the asparagus and cook until bright green, about 3 to 4 minutes. Drain and turn into the ice water bath until chilled. Drain, and layer on clean towels to pat dry. Serve with one or both of these dips.

Curry Mayonnaise

Makes 1 cup.

This makes a great dip and a terrific spread for any sandwich or wrap. From Beth Dooley.

• 1 c. prepared mayonnaise, such as Hellman's

• 2 tsp. curry powder

• 2 tsp. fresh lime juice

• Generous pinch cayenne pepper, to taste

• Generous pinch freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Put the mayonnaise, curry powder, lime juice, cayenne pepper and black pepper into a small bowl and whisk until blended. Store any extra in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Herbed Cashew Dip

Makes 1 cup.

Rich, creamy, delicious and 100% plant-based. From Beth Dooley.

• 1/2 c. raw cashews

• Boiling water to cover

• 1 clove garlic, smashed

• 1/4 c. mixed parsley and basil or fresh herbs of your choice, plus more for garnish

• 2 tsp. lemon juice, or more to taste

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Dash of hot sauce, to taste

Directions

Put the cashews into a medium heatproof bowl and cover with boiling water. Allow to sit for about 15 minutes. Transfer the cashews with the water into a blender or food processor fitted with a steel blade. Add garlic, herbs and lemon juice and process until smooth. (Add more water if needed to reach the consistency of yogurt.) Season with the salt, pepper and a shot of hot sauce to taste.

Transfer to a bowl to serve, sprinkling herbs on top to garnish. Store in a covered container in the refrigerator.

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