Asparagus season is upon us, and we couldn’t be more excited! This versatile vegetable is a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason. Not only is it packed with nutrients like vitamin C, calcium, and iron, but it’s also incredibly delicious when prepared correctly.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a show-stopping main course, asparagus has got you covered. And the best part? It pairs perfectly with a wide range of flavors and ingredients, from rich cheeses to savory meats to tangy sauces. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious asparagus dinner recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic roasted asparagus to creamy pasta dishes and indulgent brunch options, these recipes showcase the best of what asparagus has to offer. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this tasty veggie!
Garlic Butter Roasted Asparagus
Add a touch of elegance to your meals with this simple yet flavorful side dish. Garlic butter roasted asparagus is a perfect accompaniment to any main course, and its aroma will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and minced garlic.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the asparagus.
6. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using) to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Asparagus and Mushroom Pasta
A delicious and flavorful pasta dish that combines the tender sweetness of asparagus with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, asparagus, and mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 1-2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Combine cooked pasta with sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Lemon Parmesan Grilled Asparagus
Elevate your vegetable game with this flavorful and vibrant side dish! A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, and a gentle char from the grill bring out the natural sweetness in asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto the asparagus spears.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the asparagus for 8-10 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top of the asparagus during the last minute of grilling.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Asparagus and Prosciutto Bundles
Asparagus and Prosciutto Bundles: A Simple yet Elegant Appetizer
Elevate your next gathering with these flavorful and visually appealing bundles, featuring tender asparagus, crispy prosciutto, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of prosciutto, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, wrap each prosciutto slice around 3-4 asparagus spears.
5. Place the bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy.
Cooking Time: 17-20 minutes
Baked Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet impressive recipe that pairs perfectly tender spears with a rich and creamy Hollandaise sauce.
Baked Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until tender, flipping halfway through.
4. Meanwhile, make Hollandaise sauce: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg yolks, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper (if using). Set bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring constantly, until thickened and emulsified, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in softened butter until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart
Elevate your brunch game with this simple yet elegant Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart recipe. Perfect for springtime gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, this tart is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together crumbled goat cheese and olive oil. Spread evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange asparagus spears on top of the goat cheese mixture.
5. Fold edges of pastry up to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush egg wash over the crust to give it a golden brown finish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until puff pastry is golden and asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus
A flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the tenderness of salmon, all cooked to perfection in one pan. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the salmon fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes, until seared.
5. Add the asparagus to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
6. Dot the top of each salmon fillet with the remaining 1 tbsp of butter.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Asparagus and Bacon Risotto
Asparagus and Bacon Risotto: A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender asparagus with crispy bacon and a rich risotto base.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet, then sauté the asparagus and garlic until tender.
4. Add Arborio rice to the skillet and stir to coat with oil and mix with asparagus mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until absorbed.
6. Add warmed broth to the skillet in 1/2 cup increments, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding more.
7. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, risotto should be creamy and tender. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Asparagus with Balsamic Glaze
Simplify your springtime cooking with this elegant yet effortless recipe, highlighting the natural sweetness of asparagus paired with a rich and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill asparagus for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan.
5. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Brush grilled asparagus with the warm balsamic glaze during the last minute of grilling.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Chicken Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the tender goodness of asparagus with juicy chicken and savory soy sauce. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon 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 tablespoon of oil. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add asparagus to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 1 minute to combine flavors.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken dinner game with this creamy, flavorful recipe that combines the simplicity of chicken breast with the richness of cheese and asparagus. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with cooked asparagus mixture, then top with shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese.
5. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asparagus and Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with tender asparagus, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook asparagus for 4-6 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside with asparagus.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until reduced slightly.
6. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve scampi sauce over cooked asparagus and shrimp. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Asparagus with Feta and Walnuts
Roasted Asparagus with Feta and Walnuts Recipe
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of roasted asparagus with the tanginess of feta cheese and the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle feta cheese and walnuts over the top.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and squeeze with lemon juice (if using).
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Asparagus and Potato Frittata
This Asparagus and Potato Frittata is a flavorful and filling breakfast or brunch option that’s perfect for any occasion. With the combination of tender asparagus, creamy potatoes, and rich eggs, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the diced potato and butter until the potatoes are tender.
3. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the potato and asparagus mixture in the skillet.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to set.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the frittata is cooked through.
8. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Asparagus Soup with Croutons
Savor the sweet and earthy flavors of asparagus in this creamy and comforting soup, topped with crunchy croutons for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (for croutons)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add asparagus, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until asparagus is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss baguette cubes with olive oil and season with salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm soup topped with croutons.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Asparagus and Gruyere Quiche
A classic French-inspired quiche filled with tender asparagus, creamy Gruyère cheese, and a flaky crust. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange asparagus in the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the asparagus.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto Asparagus and Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of pesto, asparagus, and fresh tomatoes with al dente pasta for a delicious and healthy meal. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Add pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus, and pesto-tomato mixture in a large serving bowl. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top.
6. Cooking time: 15-20 minutes.
Asparagus and Beef Stir-Fry with Black Bean Sauce
This recipe combines the sweetness of asparagus, the savory flavor of beef, and the depth of black bean sauce for a unique and delicious stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup black bean sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and asparagus to the pan, cooking for 3-4 minutes or until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan, pouring in the black bean sauce. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Asparagus and Mushrooms
Elevate your springtime sides with this sweet and savory recipe featuring tender asparagus, earthy mushrooms, and a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 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 and mushrooms with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
5. While the vegetables roast, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan.
6. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush the balsamic glaze over the roasted asparagus and mushrooms.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Asparagus and Lemon Orzo Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for spring and summer gatherings. The combination of tender asparagus, bright lemon flavor, and creamy orzo pasta makes it a delightful side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. orzo pasta
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, asparagus mixture, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with these 20 mouth-watering asparagus recipes! From classic garlic butter roasted asparagus to creamy pasta dishes, and from savory stir-fries to decadent tarts, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party centerpiece, these delicious recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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