Surprise… this isn’t guacamole!
It sure looks like guacamole. But the secret ingredient in this avocado-free dip is… asparagus?!
Yes, it’s true! And you can use it any way you’d use regular guacamole: as a dip for chips or veggies, spread on a sandwich, as a sauce for pasta or baked potatoes, or plain with a spoon. High in fiber and vitamins, it’s a great way to take advantage of all the nutritional benefits asparagus has to offer.
View Asparagus Guacamole Nutrition Facts
Avocado-Free Guacamole
(Makes about 1 and 3/4 cups)
- 8 oz asparagus (34-36 skinny spears, ends trimmed)
- 1 cup plus 2 tbsps peas (or 5 oz frozen, thawed)
- 2 tbsp mayo, such as Vegenaise, OR homemade Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1/2 a lime
- 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp diced red onion (omit if desired)
- optional 2 tsp dry cilantro
- optional sweetener if desired
Steam the asparagus just until soft, then combine all ingredients except onion, and blend in a food processor until very smooth. Stir in onion. Refrigerate until cold. (Or you can steam the asparagus in advance and chill them so your dip will be cold after blending.)
Nutrition facts for the recipe are linked at the beginning of this post.
I really do like Mexican food but cannot stomach cilantro. I always leave it out. Yes, I know that means I’m missing the “Mexican” in the dishes, but, hey, I just can’t eat it (or digest it, I should say).
Haha me too!! That’s why I put it as optional. Apparently, according to one of my friends, some people have a gene where it makes cilantro taste like dish soap…
I don’t know if it’s true, but he was a science major lol. Plus it would explain my abhorrence of the spice!
That’s true! I love cilantro, and I also love the NYTimes, so I happen to see this when it was posted:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/14/dining/14curious.html?_r=1&emc=eta1
It explains the gene dilemma.
Thanks Andrea! This DOES explain it. My parents cannot put it in their mouths either and I would do as Julia Childs’ said “pick it out and throw it on the floor” except maybe not the throwing it on the floor part, I’d probably just put it on the edge of my plate and not make direct eye contact. LOL
Can you use Greek yogurt as the mayo-y part?
Sorry, I haven’t tried it.
Get.out! This is awesome because from now until May I eat copious amounts of asparagus to get my yearly fill. I’m in love. <3
Has anyone tried Veganaise and what are the best brands? I’ve been wanting to try it, but am a little worried of it tasting weird. And is it a healthier alternative to regular Mayo?
I do know Veganaise and Nayonaise are cholesterol-free :).
Very cool idea! I’ve had pea hummus before- peas instead of chickpeas, which this reminds me of. And Loveddd it. It’s all about the spices anyways! But I do have a love for avocados so I don’t think regular guac is out of my rotation.
Wow that sounds AWEsome. I love the idea of using peas in there and anything with cilantro is a win in my book!
I absolutely love Mexican food! Though I have to admit, the chips and salsa and margaritas are really my favorite part!! But I’ve never been a fan of avocados or guac so this sounds fabulous to me!! Can’t wait try it!
I never used to be a mexican fan but the past month I’ve been craving it like crazy!! In fact, I made enchiladas for my family last night…with guac!! I do love guacamole! But, I would very much like to give your alternative recipe a try!
So creative, and looks delicious. I know the whole point is avocado free, but I love those things and so many great nutrients. So, I’m going to throw one in with the recipe and see what happens! Thanks for the inspiration ;).
I just liked your facebook page!
l have been subscribed to your blog for a few days now, and LOVE it.
Don’t like guac?!?! I don’t think I can read this blog anymore!!! 🙂
Your dip looks awesome, and just like guacamole! I am jealous that you can be this creative with your SAVORY recipes too!
This is nuts! I know I would not like this, lol, but I think it’s an awesome recipe!
cant wait to try this (and subscribed by email!)
2nd comment for subscription 🙂
3rd comment for subscribing by email. I almost bought asparagus today but put it back down. Really wish I hadn’t!