Are you looking for creative ways to incorporate asparagus into your meals? This delicious and versatile vegetable is a great addition to many dishes, from classic comfort food to elegant dinner parties. With its subtle bitterness and sweet, earthy flavor, asparagus pairs well with a wide range of ingredients and cooking methods.
From roasted and grilled to sautéed and steamed, there are countless ways to prepare asparagus. And when you add in creative twists like cheese, nuts, and citrus, the possibilities become endless! In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful asparagus dinner recipes that will inspire your culinary creativity and satisfy your taste buds.
Garlic Butter Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite main courses.
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
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 butter and garlic until well combined.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the asparagus.
6. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle with lemon juice before serving.
– Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Creamy Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto
Creamy Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto Recipe
Summary: This creamy risotto recipe combines the flavors of asparagus, mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese for a delicious and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture; stir until absorbed. Repeat process, adding the broth in 1/2-cup increments and stirring until absorbed, until all broth is used (about 20-25 minutes).
5. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the asparagus and mushrooms to the skillet.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest and Olive Oil
This simple yet flavorful recipe brings out the natural sweetness of asparagus, perfectly balanced by a bright and citrusy lemon zest. Perfect for a light and refreshing side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt.
3. Place asparagus on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Remove from grill and sprinkle with lemon zest.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart
Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart Recipe
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of asparagus with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange cooked asparagus in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
5. Top asparagus with crumbled goat cheese.
6. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Roll out remaining pastry to fit over filling, pressing edges to seal. Crimp or flute edge to prevent filling from escaping during baking.
8. Place tart on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Asparagus with Garlic and Almonds
Elevate the humble asparagus spear with a flavorful pan-sear, enhanced by aromatic garlic and crunchy almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, then swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan.
3. Add the asparagus in a single layer, leaving some space between each spear.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, until the asparagus starts to soften and develop brown spots.
5. Flip the asparagus over and cook an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
6. Remove the pan from heat and add the minced garlic. Let it sizzle for 30 seconds, releasing its aroma.
7. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top of the asparagus and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Asparagus and Bacon Wrapped Chicken
Asparagus and Bacon Wrapped Chicken: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 (2-3 pound) whole chicken breast, boneless, skinless
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut in half
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed to 5-inch spears
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Purchase the chicken breast and wrap each end with a half-slice of bacon. Place the wrapped ends under the chicken breast.
- Cook the asparagus by steaming it for 5-7 minutes or until tender. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- Place the wrapped chicken breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time:
– Asparagus: 5-7 minutes
– Chicken: 25-30 minutes
Note: Cooking time may vary depending on your oven’s performance and chicken size. Always ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish, featuring succulent shrimp and tender asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
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 garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce the heat to medium and add the lemon juice, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, until tender.
8. Serve the shrimp with the asparagus and sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo shells
– 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well to combine.
5. Stuff each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture, followed by a spoonful of cooked asparagus.
6. Place stuffed shells on a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce
A classic combination that elevates the humble asparagus to new heights, this recipe is a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
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, melted
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together egg yolks, melted butter, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
6. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup warm water while continuously whisking until smooth and creamy.
7. Serve Hollandaise sauce over the roasted asparagus.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Chicken Stir-Fry
Asparagus and Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
This recipe combines the flavors of succulent chicken, tender asparagus, and savory soy sauce for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and asparagus. Cook, stirring occasionally, until asparagus is tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the pan and pour in soy sauce mixture. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Salmon Foil Packets
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the tender flavor of salmon with the crispy texture of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large pieces of aluminum foil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the salmon fillets into equal-sized pieces.
3. Place a piece of salmon in the center of each foil square.
4. Arrange asparagus spears on top of the salmon.
5. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
6. Add a slice of lemon on top.
7. Fold the foil over the ingredients to create a packet, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
8. Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Asparagus Soup with Croutons
A warm and comforting soup perfect for a chilly evening, featuring the sweet flavor of asparagus and crunchy croutons.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (for croutons)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add asparagus to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree soup until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss baguette cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown (croutons).
7. Serve soup hot, topped with croutons and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Asparagus and Quinoa Salad with Feta
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the earthy taste of asparagus, creamy feta cheese, and nutty quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss asparagus with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted asparagus, feta cheese, red onion, and parsley.
4. Drizzle lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Asparagus and Steak Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the tenderness of steak with the crisp freshness of grilled asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound steak (such as flank or skirt), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Add steak and asparagus to the marinade; toss to coat.
4. Thread marinated ingredients onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until steak reaches desired level of doneness.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Asparagus and Ham Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This casserole combines the flavors of tender asparagus, savory ham, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté asparagus, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine milk, butter, and cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Combine cooked asparagus mixture with ham and sauce. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asparagus and Pesto Pasta
A classic combination of fresh asparagus, rich pesto, and al dente pasta makes for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the asparagus. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Stir in the pesto and Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Asparagus with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet impressive recipe, featuring a tangy balsamic glaze that complements the natural sweetness of the roasted vegetables.
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 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. Spread asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. While asparagus is roasting, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey in a small bowl.
7. After asparagus has roasted for 10 minutes, remove from oven and brush with the balsamic glaze.
8. Return to oven and roast for an additional 2-3 minutes or until glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Asparagus and Potato Frittata
Asparagus and Potato Frittata Recipe Summary:
This Italian-inspired breakfast or brunch dish combines the flavors of asparagus, potatoes, and eggs for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the asparagus and potatoes; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until tender.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the asparagus mixture in the skillet.
7. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the frittata is fully cooked and puffed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 6-8 people
Asparagus and Chicken Alfredo Bake
Asparagus and Chicken Alfredo Bake: A creamy and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until tender.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with chicken and asparagus.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Asparagus and Tofu Stir-Fry with Sesame Sauce
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the tender crunch of asparagus, the savory taste of tofu, and the nutty richness of sesame sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the asparagus, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the asparagus is tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame seeds, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
5. Pour the sesame sauce over the asparagus mixture; stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get creative with these 20 delicious asparagus dinner recipes! From classic roasted asparagus with parmesan to more adventurous dishes like asparagus and goat cheese tart, there’s something for everyone. Try grilling asparagus with lemon zest and olive oil or pan-searing it with garlic and almonds. You’ll also find unique combinations like asparagus and bacon wrapped chicken, shrimp with asparagus and lemon garlic, and even vegan options like tofu stir-fry with sesame sauce. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for some new dinner ideas, this collection has got you covered!
