As the weather starts to warm up, our cravings for fresh spring veggies begin to emerge. But what if you’re stuck in a cooking rut and don’t have the time or inclination to trek out to your local farmer’s market? Fear not! Frozen asparagus is a game-changer – it’s just as nutritious as its fresh counterpart, but with the added convenience of being ready to use whenever you need it. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good shortcut in the kitchen?
In this article, we’ll explore 18 easy and delicious frozen asparagus recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From comforting casseroles to quick stir-fries, these dishes showcase just how versatile this humble veggie can be. So whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, get ready to turn up the heat (and your taste buds) with our collection of frozen asparagus recipes!
Garlic Butter Roasted Frozen Asparagus
Transform frozen asparagus into a delicious side dish with this easy recipe that combines the flavors of garlic and butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen asparagus, thawed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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 and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Frozen Asparagus Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring tender asparagus, parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 1 lb. frozen asparagus spears
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute over medium heat. Add frozen asparagus and cook for 5 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and creamy sauce in a large serving dish. Toss until well coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Pepper Frozen Asparagus Stir-Fry
Brighten up your meal with this zesty and flavorful stir-fry, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the taste of fresh asparagus year-round.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen asparagus spears
– 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss the frozen asparagus spears with lemon pepper seasoning, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle minced garlic on top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Frozen Asparagus with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Elevate your asparagus game by baking frozen spears to a tender perfection and topping them with crispy breadcrumbs. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen asparagus
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the frozen asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until tender, flipping halfway through.
6. While the asparagus is baking, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
7. Remove the asparagus from the oven and sprinkle with the breadcrumb mixture.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the crumbs are crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cheesy Frozen Asparagus Casserole
This creamy casserole is a delicious way to enjoy asparagus year-round, with the convenience of freezing for later use.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté asparagus in a little water until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. Roll out puff pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread cooked asparagus mixture evenly over pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Top with cheese mixture, followed by a drizzle of heavy cream.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful vegetarian dish perfect for a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup frozen asparagus, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add the thawed asparagus and stir until heated through.
7. Remove from heat, then stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Frozen Asparagus Soup with Cream
Quick Frozen Asparagus Soup with Cream Recipe
This recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of asparagus year-round, even when fresh ones are not in season. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll have a delicious and creamy soup ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen asparagus spears
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the frozen asparagus spears and pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the asparagus is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Bacon Frittata
A delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of asparagus, bacon, and eggs.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup frozen asparagus, thawed and drained
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add the thawed asparagus, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese to the eggs. Mix well.
4. Pour the egg mixture into a greased 9-inch (23cm) pie plate or skillet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the frittata is set and golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Glazed Frozen Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this sweet and savory recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen asparagus spears
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Spread the frozen asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and olive oil until well combined.
5. Drizzle the honey glaze evenly over the asparagus spears.
6. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Chicken Stir-Fry
In just a few minutes, you can create a delicious and healthy stir-fry using frozen asparagus, chicken, and your favorite sauces. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup frozen asparagus, thawed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the garlic and asparagus to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Frozen Asparagus with Chili Flakes
Add a kick to your asparagus game with this simple and flavorful recipe. Perfect for a quick side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen asparagus spears, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and serve hot. Optional: squeeze with lemon juice and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Shrimp Scampi
A delicious and quick weeknight dinner that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the savory flavor of shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen asparagus, thawed
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
6. Add white wine (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Frozen Asparagus and Tomato Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of tomatoes with the tender crunch of frozen asparagus, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen asparagus spears, thawed
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the thawed asparagus spears and diced tomatoes.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and toss to coat.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Frozen Asparagus and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the tender flavors of chicken with the subtle sweetness of asparagus, all wrapped up in a rich cheesy package.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup frozen asparagus, thawed
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butterfly each chicken breast by cutting horizontally through the center.
3. In a small bowl, mix together asparagus, butter, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the asparagus mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Potato Hash
Transform frozen asparagus into a delicious side dish by combining it with crispy potatoes, onions, and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen asparagus, thawed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. While the potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in the thawed asparagus and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Combine the roasted potatoes with the asparagus mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce
A classic combination that elevates the humble asparagus to new heights. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and frozen
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw the asparagus according to package instructions.
3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper; whisk until combined.
5. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Toss the thawed asparagus with the Hollandaise sauce until well coated.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Quinoa Bowl
Enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal with this simple recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of asparagus with the nutty taste of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen asparagus spears, thawed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and feta cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the thawed asparagus spears and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, asparagus mixture, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Salmon Foil Packets
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the tender goodness of salmon and asparagus. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound frozen asparagus, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 sheets of aluminum foil, heavy-duty
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the salmon fillets into individual serving sizes.
3. Place a piece of salmon on each sheet of foil, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
4. Add a few asparagus spears and a sprinkle of garlic on top of the salmon.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the foil over the ingredients, creating a tight seal.
7. Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious ways to cook frozen asparagus? This article has got you covered! With 18 easy recipes, you’ll never have to sacrifice taste for convenience again. From Garlic Butter Roasted Frozen Asparagus to Cheesy Frozen Asparagus Casserole, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a light and refreshing salad, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. Get ready to add some green to your plate with these mouth-watering frozen asparagus recipes!
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