Asparagus is king of the spring veggies, and whether you like yours thick, thin, or in between, you’ll need these fabulous asparagus recipes to make the most of it this season.
When the first great asparagus comes to market I just give it a rinse, snap off the ends, and simply roast it in a hot oven with some olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon. But after a few rounds of that I’m usually ready to get more creative. Luckily asparagus has one of the longest growing seasons of all the spring veggies ~ from early spring through late spring or early summer. Here are some of my most delicious asparagus recipes to make the most of it…
Asparagus ~ thick or thin?
For the longest time I was convinced that thin asparagus was superior to the thicker stalks. It’s harvested when the plant is younger, before the spears have had a chance to fully mature and thicken. It has a nice fresh snap to it, and so is great for salads and crudité platters.
But recently I’ve come over to the thick side! Thicker asparagus is earthy, and super creamy in texture when you cook it just right. It also provides more asparagus flavor.
asparagus cooking techniques
- Steaming: Delicately cooks thin asparagus, preserving its tender texture and subtle flavor; needs minimal time to prevent mushiness.
- Sautéing: Quick and easy for both thick and thin, lightly browning and tenderizing with a touch of oil and seasoning (5-7 minutes.)
- Roasting: Best for thicker spears, concentrates flavors and creates a slightly caramelized exterior with a tender interior. (400F for 12-15 minutes.)
Recipe 👉🏼 Roasted Asparagus with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Don’t underestimate those crispy breadcrumbs: they’re super seasoned with garlic, herbs, butter, and…wait for it…anchovies! If you’ve got fat stalks of asparagus, this is the perfect recipe to showcase them.
Recipe 👉🏼 Simple Asparagus Tart
As simple as it gets, this fresh tart is fancy enough for a spring dinner party. Add chopped ham or prosciutto for a heartier tart.
Recipe 👉🏼 Chopped Asparagus Salad
A colorful, healthy, chunky veggie salad and one of my personal favorite asparagus recipes. We make it on repeat until the last of the asparagus is gone from the markets.
Recipe 👉🏼 Creamy Lemon Chicken with Asparagus
A quick and easy chicken and asparagus recipe where everything cooks in the same pot. It just screams spring!
Recipe 👉🏼 Saffron Risotto with Roasted Asparagus
Eye-popping golden saffron risotto is complemented by bright green roasted asparagus in this classic Mediterranean meal.
Recipe 👉🏼 Asparagus Gratin
A cozy gratin is the perfect side for so many dinners, both casual and celebratory. My method assures that those delicate stalks don’t get limp and soggy.
Recipe 👉🏼 Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta
A meatless meal the whole family can get behind ~ I like to use slender stalks of asparagus for this dish.
Recipe 👉🏼 Fried Rice with Asparagus and Peas
Lots of fresh asparagus and peas turn leftover rice into a feast. Asparagus recipes don’t get much easier!
Recipe 👉🏼 Asparagus Goat Cheese and Olive Frittata
My asparagus frittata works for breakfast, brunch, or brinner and makes a beautiful presentation. This is one of those asparagus recipes that showcases its versatility.
Recipe 👉🏼 Asparagus Bisque
A lovely spring soup to serve as a starter for an Easter or Mother’s Day brunch. Makes a light supper with a salad and some crusty bread.
Recipe 👉🏼 Blistered Corn and Asparagus Salad with Salmon
Asparagus and salmon are such great partners in this main course salad. Salmon contributes those healthy omega 3 fatty acids, while asparagus is packed with antioxidants and vitamin C.
I am weak in the knees with enthusiasm for these amazing recipes. Can’t wait to try!
Love that Lorraine!
We love asparagus and everyone of these recipes look fantastic! Great round up Sue!
I’ve been stuck in a rut making the same two asparagus recipes over and over, so you’ve come to the rescue!!! Lots of delicious winners!!
I adore asparagus in quiche, with scrambled eggs, or simply roasted in the oven. I know I will love each and every one of these recipes! Those puff pastry brie bundles look heavenly! Pinned 🙂
A wonderful group of recipes – asparagus it is! Great work, Sue