Asparagus

INGREDIENTS

• 1 bunch of medium sized asparagus, about 1 lb
• 2 Tbsp of the most exquisite extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest – freshly grated lemon rind
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

METHOD

1 Prepare the asparagus by rinsing them thoroughly, break off any tough, white bottoms and discard. Cut into 1 to 2 inch sections, slicing the asparagus at a slight diagonal.

2 Fill a medium sized saucepan half way with water, bring to a boil. Add the asparagus and reduce heat slightly to a simmer. Parboil the asparagus for exactly 2 minutes. Drain the hot water. While the asparagus are still hot, toss them in a bowl with the olive oil, Parmesan, and lemon rind. Salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm or room temperature.

http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/asparagus/

Pesto with Yogurt

This recipe from Gourmet magazine is published on Epicurious.com. It is obviously not one of the weight-loss recipes, but I  thought it was a wonderful concept. I will be modifying it to reduce the calories using the techniques from FatFreeVegan which eliminate the cheese and the oil.

Remarks from the recipe originator – “Mix fresh pesto with yogurt, and the pesto will not turn brown over time as it ordinarily does.  I have kept leftover pesto mixed with yogurt in the refrigerator for several days with no discernible change in color or flavor. The proportion can vary — as little as one part yogurt to eight parts pesto, or as much as you like for flavor.”

• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt

Mince garlic and mash to a paste with salt. In a food processor purée garlic paste, basil, walnuts, Parmesan, and oil until smooth. Add yogurt and combine well. Pesto keeps, its surface covered with plastic wrap, chilled, 5 days.