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Spring Asparagus Recipes

As spring arrives, so does the season's most anticipated vegetable: asparagus! With its tender shoots and vibrant green color, it's no wonder this delicious and nutritious ingredient is a staple in many cuisines around the world. Whether you prefer to enjoy it grilled, steamed, or roasted, there are countless ways to prepare and serve spring asparagus. In this article, we'll explore some of our favorite recipes that showcase the versatility and beauty of this seasonal delight.

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce​

Spring is the perfect time to indulge in roasted asparagus, and when paired with a tangy lemon-parmesan sauce, it becomes an unbeatable combination. Simply trim the ends of one pound of fresh asparagus, toss with two tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet, and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes or until tender.

While the asparagus is roasting, combine two tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, one tablespoon chopped parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the roasted asparagus from the oven, drizzle with the lemon-parmesan sauce, and serve immediately.

Spring Asparagus Salad with Feta and Mint​

This refreshing salad is a perfect representation of spring's flavors and colors. To make it, combine two cups fresh asparagus spears (blanched for three minutes and then chilled), one cup crumbled feta cheese, half cup chopped fresh mint leaves, two tablespoons olive oil, and one tablespoon white wine vinegar in a bowl.

Toss gently to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste. This salad is an ideal side dish or light lunch option that showcases the best of spring's produce.

Pan-Seared Asparagus with Garlic Butter​

For those who love a more indulgent take on asparagus, pan-seared asparagus with garlic butter is sure to become a favorite. Simply trim one pound fresh asparagus into two-inch pieces and sauté in two tablespoons unsalted butter until tender and slightly caramelized.

To make the garlic butter, mix one tablespoon softened butter with two cloves minced garlic and a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the asparagus is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the garlic butter until combined. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Spring Asparagus Risotto​

Spring is also the perfect time to indulge in creamy risottos made with fresh asparagus. To make this recipe, start by heating two tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add one small onion (diced), cook until translucent, then add one cup Arborio rice and cook for two minutes while stirring constantly. Add four cups chicken broth, warmed to a simmer, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more broth.

While the risotto cooks, prepare one pound fresh asparagus (trimmed) by sautéing in one tablespoon olive oil and seasoning with salt and pepper. Once the risotto is cooked, stir in grated Parmesan cheese (half cup), and combine with the cooked asparagus. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Grilled Asparagus with Burrata Cheese​

For a simple yet impressive side dish or appetizer, try grilling fresh asparagus spears alongside burrata cheese. Simply brush two cups fresh asparagus spears with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill for three to four minutes per side until tender.

Meanwhile, combine one ball of burrata cheese (drained) with a pinch of salt, pepper, and chopped fresh basil leaves in a small bowl. Remove the grilled asparagus from heat and serve alongside the creamy burrata cheese, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

Steamed Asparagus with Lemon Aioli​

For those who prefer to keep things simple yet elegant, steaming fresh asparagus spears paired with a tangy lemon aioli is an unbeatable combination. Simply trim one pound of fresh asparagus and steam until tender using a vegetable steamer or by placing them in a microwave-safe container covered with a damp paper towel for three minutes.

While the asparagus is steaming, combine two tablespoons mayonnaise, one tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the steamed asparagus alongside the creamy lemon aioli for an unbeatable flavor combination.

These are just a few ideas to get you started on your spring asparagus culinary journey. Whether you're looking for simple, elegant side dishes or more indulgent main courses, there's no shortage of delicious ways to showcase this incredible seasonal ingredient!