Easy Steamed Asparagus Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and nutritious side dish, you can’t go wrong with this simple yet delightful creation featuring fresh asparagus. Perfectly steamed to tender perfection, this dish retains its vibrant color and flavor, making it a standout accompaniment for any meal.

I vividly remember the first time I made this recipe for a family gathering. My grandmother, a culinary genius in her own right, had always emphasized the magic of fresh ingredients. She would proudly say that the key to any memorable dish lies in its simplicity. With this dish, she was right once again. It became an instant family favorite, and now I’m sharing it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe shines with its ease and practicality. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it allows the fresh flavors of asparagus to take center stage. The steaming method preserves not only the vibrant green color but also the essential nutrients, making it both healthy and eye-catching. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side or a fancy addition to a holiday feast, this dish ticks all the boxes.

Ingredients Notes

The star of this recipe is obviously asparagus. When choosing asparagus, look for firm, straight stalks with tight tips. If you can’t find fresh asparagus, frozen works as a substitute, just ensure it is well thawed before steaming. A touch of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a hint of sea salt are all that’s needed to elevate its natural taste.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Trim the tough ends of your asparagus stalks to ensure a tender final product.

Step 2

Bring a pot of water to a simmer, setting a steamer basket above the waterline.

Step 3

Arrange the asparagus in the basket, ensuring even spacing for uniform cooking.

Step 4

Cover the pot and let the asparagus steam for 4-6 minutes, depending on the thickness.

Step 5

Once tender-crisp, remove from heat. Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon, then sprinkle with sea salt before serving.

Storage Options

Store any leftover asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, lay the steamed asparagus on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat gently in a steamer or microwave to maintain texture.

Variations & Substitutions

For a burst of flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving. If you’re looking to accommodate dietary preferences, a dash of tamari or a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a completely new dimension of taste.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or can stand alone as a centerpiece in a vegetarian spread. It’s a versatile addition to brunches, casual dinners, or festive occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use white asparagus instead? Yes, white asparagus can be used in the same way, though it has a slightly more fibrous texture so may require a bit longer steaming time.

How do I prevent my asparagus from becoming soggy? To avoid sogginess, monitor the steaming closely and quickly transfer the asparagus to an ice bath when done to halt the cooking process.

Is it necessary to peel the asparagus? Generally, green asparagus doesn’t need peeling. However, if using thick stalks, you may want to peel the lower third to ensure tenderness.

Easy Steamed Asparagus Recipe

This easy steamed asparagus recipe is a simple and healthy side dish perfect for any meal. The asparagus maintains its vibrant color and crisp texture.

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Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1 pound asparagus trimmed
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon salt to taste
• ▢ 1 tablespoon butter melted

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Rinse the asparagus and snap off the tough ends.
• Fill a pot with about 1 inch of water and bring to a boil. Place a steaming basket over the pot.
• Place the asparagus in the steaming basket, cover, and steam for about 4-5 minutes until tendercrisp.
• Remove from heat, season with salt, and drizzle with melted butter before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice.