Sweet and Sour Noodles with Asparagus

High in flavor but low in fat, this quick and colorful stir-fry makes plentiful use of tender spring asparagus. If you prefer not to cook with alcohol, substitute vegetable broth for the wine.

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High in flavor but low in fat, this quick and colorful stir-fry makes plentiful use of tender spring asparagus. If you prefer not to cook with alcohol, substitute vegetable broth for the wine.

Servings
4

Ingredients

  • 8 oz. dried Asian noodles, such as soba, udon or Chinese wheat noodles
  • 1 1/2 Tbs. cornstarch
  • 2 tsp. vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp. dark sesame oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 medium cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 lbs. slender asparagus, trimmed and cut on slight diagonal into 1-inch pieces (4 cups)
  • 14.5-oz. can diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 3 Tbs. rice vinegar
  • 3 Tbs. soy sauce
  • 2 Tbs. honey
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper

Preparation

MEAL PLAN:

This stir-fry is delicious teamed with sauteed diced tofu flavored with a mild teriyaki sauce. Add an array of crisp raw strips of red bell pepper and carrot to serve on the side.

Bring large pot of water to a boil. Add noodles; stir to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain well and set aside until ready to use.

Meanwhile, in a cup, mix together cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water until smooth. Set aside.

In nonstick wok or large nonstick skillet, heat both oils over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add asparagus, increase heat to medium-high and stir-fry until crisp-tender, 5 to 7 minutes.

Add tomatoes, wine, vinegar, soy sauce and honey; mix well. Stir in reserved cornstarch mixture, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring, until mixture has thickened, 2 minutes.

Stir in cooked noodles until well coated. Season with pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings to create a pleasing sweet and sour balance. Serve hot.

Nutrition Information

  • Calories 223
  • Carbohydrate Content 41 g
  • Cholesterol Content 0 mg
  • Fat Content 4 g
  • Fiber Content 6 g
  • Protein Content 9 g
  • Saturated Fat Content 0 g
  • Sodium Content 973 mg
  • Sugar Content 0 g

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