As the weather warms up and spring arrives, our taste buds crave lighter, brighter flavors that evoke the season’s freshness. One of the most iconic symbols of spring is, of course, asparagus – its tender shoots bursting with flavor and texture. But what to do with this versatile vegetable? Well, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering steamed asparagus recipes that will take your springtime meals to the next level.
From classic pairings like garlic butter and parmesan to more adventurous combinations featuring sesame soy, balsamic glaze, and even spicy chili lime, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these easy-to-make recipes are sure to delight your family and friends.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of steamed asparagus perfection!
Garlic Butter Steamed Asparagus
Elevate your vegetable side dish with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Prepare the asparagus by snapping off any woody ends and cutting into uniform lengths if necessary.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the asparagus to the boiling water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Steamed Asparagus
This simple yet flavorful recipe elevates the humble asparagus to new heights with a zesty lemon sauce and crunchy parmesan topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and place a steamer basket over the boiling water.
3. Add asparagus to the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 4-6 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
6. Remove asparagus from steamer and toss with the lemon butter sauce.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sesame Soy Steamed Asparagus
This simple yet flavorful recipe elevates the humble asparagus to new heights with a savory blend of sesame and soy flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and steam asparagus for 4-6 minutes or until tender.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
3. Remove asparagus from the steamer basket and brush with the sesame-soy glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Steamed Asparagus
Elevate a simple side dish with the sweet and tangy flavor of balsamic glaze, perfect for springtime meals. This easy recipe showcases the natural beauty of asparagus with a rich and savory glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Rinse asparagus and remove woody ends.
3. Steam asparagus for 4-6 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small saucepan, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey.
5. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes or until glaze thickens slightly.
6. Toss cooked asparagus with the balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce
Elevate your springtime meals with this classic combination of tender asparagus and rich Hollandaise sauce. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a Sunday brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium saucepan with an inch of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and place asparagus in a steamer basket; cover saucepan.
3. Steam for 4-6 minutes or until tender, adjusting cooking time based on thickness.
4. Meanwhile, combine egg yolks, softened butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a heatproof bowl.
5. Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water, whisking constantly until sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Serve asparagus with Hollandaise sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herbed Steamed Asparagus with Feta
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet flavorful side dish that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the tanginess of feta cheese. Perfect for springtime gatherings or everyday meals!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and place a steamer basket over the boiling water.
3. Add asparagus, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and dill to the steamer basket.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle feta cheese on top.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter Drizzle
A simple yet elegant side dish that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the creamy richness of almond butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and place asparagus in a steamer basket. Cover the pot with a lid.
3. Steam asparagus for 8-10 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together almond butter and 1 tablespoon water until smooth.
5. Drizzle the almond butter mixture over the steamed asparagus. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Chili Lime Steamed Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this bold and zesty recipe! This Spicy Chili Lime Steamed Asparagus dish is perfect for those who crave a little excitement in their vegetable side dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to desired level of spiciness)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring 2-3 inches of water to a boil in a large skillet or pot.
2. Add asparagus, olive oil, lime juice, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cover with a lid.
3. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until asparagus is tender but still crisp.
4. Remove from heat; garnish with crumbled cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Gremolata
Elevate your asparagus game with this classic Italian-inspired recipe, featuring a bright and citrusy gremolata topping. Perfect for springtime gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Add asparagus, cover, and steam for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, combine garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and olive oil in a small bowl.
4. Season the gremolata with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve steamed asparagus warm, topped with spoonfuls of gremolata.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Honey Mustard Steamed Asparagus
This simple yet flavorful recipe brings out the natural sweetness of asparagus while adding a tangy twist with honey mustard sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy side dish or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and place a steamer basket over the pot.
3. Add asparagus to the steamer basket, cover with a lid, and steam for 4-6 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, mix honey and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
5. Once asparagus is cooked, remove from heat and brush with butter.
6. Drizzle honey mustard sauce over the asparagus and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Toasted Pine Nuts
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of asparagus and the nutty flavor of pine nuts to create a delicious and healthy side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and place a steamer basket over the boiling water.
3. Add asparagus to the steamer basket, cover with a lid, and steam for 4-6 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Remove asparagus from heat and toss with olive oil, salt, and toasted pine nuts.
6. Serve hot, topped with melted butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Asparagus and Mushroom Medley
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, all steamed to perfection in just a few minutes. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 8 ounces mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and place asparagus in a steamer basket.
3. Cover the pot and steam for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Season with salt, pepper, garlic (if using), and lemon juice (if using).
7. Serve steamed asparagus alongside the mushroom medley.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Tarragon Cream
A classic springtime side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course. This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of asparagus and the subtle anise flavor of tarragon in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons chopped fresh tarragon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to a simmer and place a steamer basket over the water.
3. Add the asparagus to the steamer and cover with a lid. Steam for 4-6 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped tarragon. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
6. Serve the asparagus hot with the Tarragon Cream spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Crispy Prosciutto
A simple yet elegant side dish that showcases the tender sweetness of asparagus paired with the crunchy saltiness of prosciutto. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and place a steamer basket over the boiling water.
3. Add asparagus to the steamer basket and cover with a lid.
4. Steam for 8-10 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange prosciutto slices in a single layer.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
9. Serve asparagus hot with crispy prosciutto on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Lemon Zest and Thyme
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of asparagus with a burst of citrusy flavor from lemon zest and a hint of earthiness from thyme. Perfect for a quick and easy side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped (about 1/4 teaspoon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and place asparagus in a steamer basket.
3. Cover the pot and steam asparagus for 8-10 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. Remove asparagus from heat and stir in lemon juice, zest, and thyme.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Brown Butter Sauce
This simple yet elegant side dish elevates asparagus to new heights by pairing it with a rich and nutty brown butter sauce. Perfect for springtime meals or as a accompaniment to your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and place asparagus in a steamer basket. Cover the pot and steam for 4-6 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the asparagus is cooking, melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
4. Continue cooking the butter, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and garlic (if using).
6. Serve asparagus hot, topped with brown butter sauce and garnished with parsley or chives (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Avocado Dressing
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet impressive side dish. The creamy avocado dressing adds a rich and velvety texture to the tender, slightly charred asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 3 ripe avocados, pitted and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and place asparagus in a steamer basket. Cover the pot and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. Meanwhile, combine avocado halves, garlic, lemon juice, and Greek yogurt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Remove asparagus from heat and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve warm asparagus with the Avocado Dressing spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
This simple yet elegant recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the rich, savory flavors of sun-dried tomato pesto. Perfect for a light and satisfying springtime meal or as a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomato pesto (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer, then place a steamer basket over the pot.
3. Add asparagus to the steamer basket, cover with a lid, and steam for 4-6 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. Meanwhile, combine sun-dried tomato pesto and olive oil in a small bowl.
5. Remove asparagus from heat and toss with pesto mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Miso Tahini Drizzle
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of asparagus with the creamy richness of miso tahini, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect for a quick and easy side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and steam asparagus for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
4. Remove asparagus from pot and place on serving plate.
5. Drizzle miso tahini mixture over the asparagus.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Asparagus with Orange Ginger Glaze
Elevate your asparagus game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. The combination of tender steamed asparagus, sticky orange ginger glaze, and a hint of sweetness will make it a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Place asparagus in the steamer basket and steam for 4-6 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, honey, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce glaze by half, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
5. Brush melted butter on asparagus, then spoon the warm orange ginger glaze over the top.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to welcome spring with these delicious steamed asparagus recipes! From classic garlic butter and lemon parmesan to more adventurous options like spicy chili lime and miso tahini drizzle, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing your asparagus with hollandaise sauce or feta cheese for added richness. For a lighter take, go for a bright and citrusy lemon zest and thyme combination. Whatever your taste, these 20 recipes will have you enjoying the sweet and tender flavor of steamed asparagus all season long.
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