Alright, let’s set the stage, the work day is over, it is another crazy, busy weeknight, and you just can’t think of anything to make to eat! That is the scene at our house on so many weekdays. That’s when we reach for the most simple things that take very little time or energy to prepare. Enter our cast iron chicken thighs, oven baked potato, and this incredibly easy steamed asparagus for a well balanced meal that everyone will love!
How to Pick the Best Asparagus?
Highly recommend finding the bunch with skinny stalks of asparagus! Cook time will need to be adjusted depending on the size and the smaller ones just tend to taste better.
How To Steam Asparagus
Looking for More Ways to Cook Asparagus?
We absolutely love this fresh vegetable and have simple tutorials on how to make Air Fryer Asparagus, Smoked Asparagus, or Grilled Asparagus!
Flavor Variations
We kept this recipe card simple with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkling of kosher salt & pepper. If you want to jazz up your asparagus you could add a splash of lemon juice, some garlic, parmesan cheese, or even a little bit of crispy bacon!
Recipe FAQs and Tips
- How long should you steam asparagus? This will depend on the thickness of the stalks. The thicker the asparagus stalks, the longer they will need to steam. It also depends on how soft you like your asparagus. If you have thinner stalks and like to keep it more crisp, then you will only need to steam them for 2-3 minutes. If you have thicker stalks or like them more soft, then you might have to steam them for 4-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat when they are done to your liking.
- What to serve with steamed asparagus? This simple side dish would make a great addition to any main dish! Some of our favorites are Pesto Salmon, Blackened Chicken, & Smoked Pork Chops. It is a nice, light side dish that can go with anything!
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Steamed Asparagus Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American
Description
Learn how to easily make Steamed Asparagus for an easy and healthy side dish that is perfect for any meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh asparagus
- 1–2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 – 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prep Asparagus: Place the asparagus on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to trim 1-2 inches of tough ends off the end; discard.
- Steam: Place a steamer basket in a saucepan. Add water until it just reaches the bottom of the steamer basket. Place the asparagus stalks inside. Bring the water to a boil; then reduce to a simmer, covered, for 3-7 minutes (steam time depends on your desired crispness).
- Serve: Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper; toss to coat and enjoy!
Notes
- How Long to Steam: for a more crisp asparagus, I would check after 2-3 minutes and see if it is done to your liking. If you want a much softer asparagus, then let it cook 4-7 minutes. Definitely check it along the way and remove from heat when done.
- Butter: option to use butter instead of olive oil, if you want!
- Other add-ins: tossing in some fresh lemon zest or minced garlic always tastes good too!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3oz
- Calories: 35
- Sugar: 1.4 g
- Sodium: 104.9 mg
- Fat: 2.4 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1.6 g
- Protein: 1.7 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
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