As the weather starts to warm up, our cravings for fresh and flavorful ingredients also heat up. One of the most popular spring vegetables that fits the bill is asparagus! Whether you’re a fan of classic roasted asparagus or want to get creative with some new recipe ideas, this humble veggie is sure to become your go-to side dish or main course. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 delicious quick asparagus recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any time of year.
From comforting pasta dishes to savory stir-fries and decadent soups, our collection has something for every taste and dietary preference. So grab your apron, get ready to get cooking, and let’s explore the wonderful world of asparagus!
Garlic Butter Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetable. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a delicious side dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving some space between each spear.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the asparagus spears.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Asparagus Pasta
Brighten up your dinner table with this refreshing and flavorful pasta dish, featuring tender asparagus, zesty lemon, and nutty parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add asparagus to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Asparagus Stir-Fry
Get a taste of spring with this simple and flavorful asparagus stir-fry recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, it’s ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the asparagus and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the tanginess of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an elegant side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and brush with balsamic glaze.
6. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the tender sweetness of asparagus, perfect for a springtime meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup broth at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in asparagus during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
7. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Asparagus Gratin
Elevate your asparagus game with this creamy, cheesy gratin that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan and cheddar cheese.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked asparagus in an even layer. Sprinkle with cheese mixture, then drizzle with heavy cream.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asparagus and Bacon Wraps
Elevate your snack game with these crispy asparagus and bacon wraps, perfect for a quick lunch or evening treat. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the smoky flavor of bacon, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 6 equal pieces.
3. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg.
4. Place 2-3 asparagus spears and some crumbled bacon onto one half of each pastry piece.
5. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Creamy Asparagus Soup
Creamy Asparagus Soup Recipe
This vibrant green soup is a delightful way to showcase spring’s star ingredient – asparagus! With a rich and creamy texture, it’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the asparagus to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until tender.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the asparagus is very tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asparagus and Shrimp Skillet
A flavorful and healthy skillet dish that combines tender asparagus with succulent shrimp, all cooked to perfection in a savory garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the asparagus and cook for 4-5 minutes or until tender.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in white wine (if using) and lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Asparagus Frittata
This recipe is a perfect solution for a speedy breakfast or brunch that’s both delicious and nutritious. With just a few ingredients, you can have a flavorful frittata on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add asparagus; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a bowl, whisk eggs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour egg mixture over cooked asparagus in the skillet.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until edges start to set.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until center is set.
7. Remove from oven; let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart
Elevate your springtime gatherings with this elegant and flavorful Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart. This recipe combines the sweetness of asparagus with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 12 oz fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place asparagus in a single layer on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top asparagus with crumbled goat cheese.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush pastry with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Sesame Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the spicy kick of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) and the nutty richness of sesame.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss asparagus with sesame oil, gochugaru, soy sauce, and honey until evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Asparagus and Chicken Stir-Fry
Savor the flavors of spring with this light and refreshing stir-fry, featuring tender asparagus and juicy chicken cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Asparagus Quiche
This recipe is a perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or brunch gathering. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious quiche that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. Arrange asparagus in a single layer on the crust.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Pour over the asparagus.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the egg mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Asparagus and Tomato Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing salad featuring tender asparagus and juicy tomatoes. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for 4-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
2. Drain the asparagus and rinse under cold running water to stop cooking.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and cooked asparagus to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Herb-Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of the vegetable with the brightness of fresh herbs. This side dish is perfect for springtime gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and squeeze lemon juice over the asparagus.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Asparagus and Salmon Foil Packets
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with these flavorful and easy-to-make asparagus and salmon foil packets. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut four sheets of aluminum foil into large squares.
3. Place a salmon fillet in the center of each square.
4. Arrange asparagus spears on top of the salmon, leaving a small border around the fish.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic.
6. Fold the foil over the ingredients to create a packet, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
7. Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Asparagus Fried Rice
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe adds the freshness of asparagus to a flavorful mix of vegetables, rice, and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed veggies (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 1/2 cup fresh asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add mixed veggies and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add asparagus and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Push veggies aside; add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry rice with veggies and seasonings for about 2-3 minutes, until well combined.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of asparagus, creaminess of avocado, and crunch of whole grain bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange asparagus in a single layer and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices until lightly browned.
4. Spread mashed avocado on toasted bread rounds.
5. Top with roasted asparagus spears, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Ricotta Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the creaminess of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with asparagus pieces and Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the delicious world of asparagus! This article presents 20 mouth-watering quick recipes that are easy to make. From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Roasted Asparagus and Creamy Asparagus Soup, to creative twists such as Lemon Parmesan Asparagus Pasta and Spicy Sesame Asparagus, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Leave a Reply