Check out these Simple and healthy asparagus recipes with one of my favorite spring vegetables! From steamed asparagus pasta recipes to baked asparagus appetizers and savory stir-fries, I’m sharing all of my best asparagus recipes to try.
Healthy asparagus recipes for every season
Spring is in the air and fresh asparagus is one of my favorite seasonal ingredients. The vicious spears add an irresistible earthy flavor to all kinds of dishes. From salads to risotto, stir-fries to pasta dishes, there are countless ways to bring asparagus into the mix.
Even if you don’t cook with asparagus often, I’ve put together all my tips and tricks below to make it perfect. I’ve also compiled my best asparagus recipes that I know all asparagus fans will love.
Why eat asparagus?
Asparagus is a delicious spring vegetable that’s low in calories and high in nutrients like fiber, potassium, folic acid, and vitamins (especially vitamins A and C). Eating asparagus has many benefits in terms of weight loss, better digestion and lower blood pressure. Of course it all depends on how it is prepared, see the next section for details.
What is the best way to cook asparagus?
While asparagus is perfectly safe (and tasty) to enjoy raw, many recipes call for cooking. As with most vegetables, cooking asparagus can result in some nutrient loss since many vitamins are heat sensitive. How you prepare your asparagus also makes a difference in how healthy your dish is. Here are the best ways to cook asparagus to get the most of this vegetable’s benefits:
- steaming – Steamed asparagus is quick, easy and perfect for using in countless recipes from salads to pasta. You can also simmer the sticks in water or blanch them quickly.
- grilling – Grilled asparagus spears are one of our favorites as the char brings out another layer of flavor. A simple drizzle of olive oil is usually enough to crisp them up on the grill or wrap them in prosciutto.
- Bake – Baked or fried asparagus is another healthy option. This is great for weeknights when you can have your asparagus roasted in the oven while you make a main course.
Should I wash asparagus before cooking?
Yes, don’t forget to wash your veggies! Grit, sand, and dirt can get caught in asparagus tips, so it’s best to rinse the spears well before cooking them.
23 easy ways to use asparagus
Whether you’re new to this crunchy spring vegetable or a longtime lover of asparagus, you’ll find a recipe with your name on it right here. Below you will find delicious and easy asparagus pasta, salads, breakfast ideas, appetizers and more.
5. Fried asparagus
Let’s start with plain oven-baked asparagus. Perfect for spring, this recipe is fully customizable with lemon, garlic, parmesan, and more.
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9. Pasta with asparagus
This creamy pasta recipe is one of the best ways to use seasonal asparagus. It comes together quickly and the delicious flavors are enhanced by Parmigiano-Reggiano and freshly ground pepper.
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19. Cream of Asparagus Soup
This is an easy 5-ingredient soup recipe with the rich, earthy flavors of asparagus coated in onions and flavorful sour cream. It’s the ultimate cozy bowlful!
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We love scouring our local farmers market for asparagus as soon as it hits the stalls. If you’re looking for easier, healthy recipes using fresh seasonal ingredients, check out my recipe finder!
23. Chili Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry
I love the flavors spring asparagus brings to this spicy shrimp stir fry with chilies, garlic, ginger and sesame. And if you don’t feel the heat, don’t worry – you can easily adjust the chilli to taste.
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Helpful tips for cooking asparagus
- Depending on the season, there are asparagus spears in different strengths. Thick asparagus will take a few minutes longer to cook than thin spears. Always adjust the cooking time as needed.
- The easiest way to cut off the woody ends of the asparagus is to snap off the ends.
- Leftover asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.