The Best Ways to Cook Spring Asparagus (That Aren’t Just Roasting)
When spring arrives, so does one of the season’s most iconic vegetables: asparagus. Whether you’re planning a menu refresh or just craving something green and fresh, asparagus is your go-to for vibrant dishes packed with nutrition and flavor. From brunch to dinner sides, here are five standout recipes that celebrate spring asparagus at its best.
1. Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus
Perfect as a side dish or salad topper
This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of asparagus with a burst of citrus and the depth of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
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1 lb fresh asparagus
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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Zest and juice of 1 lemon
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Trim asparagus ends. Toss with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Roast at 400°F for 12–15 minutes until tender-crisp.
2. Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart
Elegant and easy for brunch or appetizers
A puff pastry base, creamy goat cheese, and tender asparagus tips make this dish a spring showstopper.
Ingredients:
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1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
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½ cup goat cheese
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1 egg (for wash)
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½ lb asparagus, trimmed
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1 tsp thyme
Instructions:
Roll out pastry, spread with goat cheese, and arrange asparagus on top. Sprinkle thyme and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
3. Asparagus and Lemon Risotto
Creamy, comforting, and packed with brightness
This classic Italian dish gets a spring refresh with asparagus and lemon zest stirred in at the end.
Ingredients:
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1 cup Arborio rice
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½ cup dry white wine
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4 cups warm vegetable broth
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1 tbsp olive oil
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½ cup grated Parmesan
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1 cup asparagus, chopped
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1 tbsp lemon zest
Instructions:
Sauté rice in olive oil, deglaze with wine, then slowly add broth while stirring. Add asparagus during last 5 minutes and finish with Parmesan and zest.
4. Shaved Asparagus Salad with Parmesan and Almonds
Raw, crunchy, and refreshingly light
A no-cook option that highlights the crisp texture of raw asparagus ribbons.
Ingredients:
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1 bunch asparagus, shaved
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¼ cup shaved Parmesan
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¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
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2 tbsp lemon vinaigrette
Instructions:
Use a vegetable peeler to shave asparagus into ribbons. Toss with Parmesan, almonds, and vinaigrette.
5. Creamy Asparagus Soup (Dairy-Free Option)
Smooth, springy, and ideal for meal prep
This silky soup is great served warm or chilled, making it versatile for restaurants and home kitchens alike.
Ingredients:
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1 lb asparagus, chopped
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1 onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic
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3 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
Sauté onion and garlic, add asparagus and broth, simmer until soft. Blend until smooth, stir in coconut milk, and season to taste.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're serving customers or cooking at home, spring asparagus brings versatility, nutrition, and color to every plate. Try these recipes as-is or adapt them to your own seasonal menu.
