C M FAST FIX

SPRING ASPARAGUS

This impressive side dish is delicious served warm or cold. I get lots of compliments on the homemade dressing.

—Millie Vickery, Lena, IL


Start to Finish: 25 min. • Makes: 8 servings

1/2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

2 small tomatoes, cut into wedges

3 tablespoons cider vinegar

3/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/3 cup sugar

1 tablespoon grated onion

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/3 cup canola oil

1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted

1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese, optional

1. In a large saucepan, bring 1 cup water to a boil. Add asparagus; cook, covered, until crisp-tender, 3-5 minutes. Drain; place in a large bowl. Add tomatoes; cover and keep warm.

2. Place vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, onion, salt and paprika in a blender; cover and process until smooth. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. Toss with asparagus mixture. Top with the toasted almonds and, if desired, cheese.

Per 3/4 cup: 154 cal., 11g fat (1g sat. fat), 0 chol., 159mg sod., 12g carb. (10g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g pro.

Diabetic exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.