Asparagus is one of the first vegetables to hit the farmers markets, and everyone goes wild for it. Its delicate flavor and bright green color bring springtime to any
meal. So how to cook it up this delicious veggie? This week we’re sharing 10 of our favorite ideas.
1) Roasted
Super simple and super delicious. Drizzle whole stalks with olive oil, salt and pepper, then roast on high heat until browned in places. It takes on a flavor that’s hearty and more intense and, frankly, which we can’t resist. (You may want to more than you think. You may find yourself eating half of it straight from the roasting pan.)
2) Lemon Sauté
Even quicker than roasting. Sauté over high heat until bright green (just a few minutes), then squeeze fresh lemon juice over top. The fresh squeeze of citrus at the end adds a brightness that brings out the best in asparagus.
3) Paired with Flavorful Cheese
Asparagus and cheese are match made in heaven. Cheese adds a richness to the vegetable that makes it more satisfying. Blue cheese is our favorite partner because the delicate and strong flavors bring out the best in each other, but a great Parmesan is just as delicious. You can serve the cheese plain over top, or roast it over the whole thing.
4) Over Pasta
Want to shake up your pasta routine? Add asparagus. Whether it’s this member favorite gnocchi and asparagus recipe above (finished with a splash of cream and squeeze of fresh lemon juice) or a fresh pesto, it’ll be a family favorite.
5) With Fruit
Makes a meal feel even more special. We love the combination of roasted pear and asparagus, and it’s just as delicious with apple & gruyere cheese or orange and hazelnuts. You can serve them up as salads, or add a grain and a protein for a delicious veggie bowl entrée.
6) On Pizza Bianca
White pizzas are the perfect canvas for asparagus. Try it with goat cheese & fingerling potatoes, ricotta & lemon or caramelized onions & fontina. They’re elegant, delicious and incredibly easy.
7) Shaved
Prefer something raw? Asparagus is out of this world raw when it’s cut thin. Toss shaved asparagus with a lemon vinaigrette and you have the starting point for a delicious salad.
8) With Power Greens
Bulk up any asparagus entree with edamame and spinach. The trio works just as well with Italian flavors (think basil pesto or balsamic vinaigrette) as it does with Asian or new American.
9) Tacos
Toss sautéed asparagus with black beans and a creamy adobo sauce, and you’ve got a tasty taco filling in less than 10 minutes. Extra delicious with some avocado on top.
10) Breakfast Bake
Asparagus adds color, texture and flavor – not to mention nutrition – to any egg bake. Sauté extra when you’re making dinner, and you’ve got the basics of a delicious crustless quiche, frittata or omelet.
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