Carrot and asparagus with pistachio butter

Carrot and asparagus with pistachio butter is a vibrant dish that combines sweet carrots, earthy asparagus, and rich pistachio butter. Easy to prepare, it serves as a wholesome side or light vegetarian main course.

29 Nov 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup pistachio nuts
1/2 cup butter
4 cups carrots
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp salt
1.50 lb asparagus
Carrot and asparagus with pistachio butter

Carrot and asparagus with pistachio butter is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together the natural sweetness of carrots, the earthy flavors of asparagus, and the rich, nutty essence of pistachio butter. This recipe is perfect for a wholesome side dish or a standalone meal. It's easy to prepare and packed with flavors that are sure to impress your guests or family members.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pistachio Butter:
- In a food processor, pulse the pistachio nuts until they are finely chopped.
- Add the butter to the food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Peel and slice the carrots evenly into sticks or rounds, depending on your preference.
- Trim the woody ends off the asparagus and cut into bite-sized pieces if they are large.
3. Cook the Carrots:
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of the pistachio butter over medium heat.
- Add the carrots to the pan and sprinkle with ground cumin and salt.
- Cook the carrots, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and caramelize slightly, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Cook the Asparagus:
- Add the asparagus to the pan with the carrots.
- Continue to cook until the asparagus is tender-crisp and the carrots are fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes more.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Once the vegetables are done, add the remaining pistachio butter to the pan.
- Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated in the butter and evenly heated through.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
6. Plate and Enjoy:
- Transfer the vegetable mixture to a serving dish.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish or a light vegetarian main.

Carrot and asparagus with pistachio butter is an elegant and simple recipe that can elevate any meal. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that is not only visually appealing but also deliciously satisfying. Whether you're serving it as a side or enjoying it on its own, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Carrot and asparagus with pistachio butter FAQ:

How long should I cook the carrots and asparagus?

Cook the carrots for about 10-12 minutes until they start to soften and caramelize. Then, add the asparagus and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until it's tender-crisp.

Can I make substitutions for pistachio butter?

Yes, you can substitute pistachio butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor. Ensure the consistency is similar to pistachio butter for best results.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the vegetables.

What type of pan should I use for this recipe?

A large skillet or sauté pan is ideal for this recipe to accommodate the carrots and asparagus while allowing even cooking.

How do I know when the asparagus is done cooking?

The asparagus is done when it is tender-crisp; it should be bright green and still have a slight bite to it. Avoid overcooking, which can make it mushy.

Tips:

- Use fresh, tender asparagus for the best flavor and texture.

- Roast the pistachios lightly before blending them into butter to enhance their nutty flavor.

- Do not overcook the vegetables; aim for a tender-crisp texture to preserve their nutrients.

- Feel free to add lemon zest for a bright, zesty twist.

- For a smoother pistachio butter, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil while blending.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 200kcal
Protein 4.65g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 4.51g
Sugar 5g
Fat 16g

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