Do you need a steamer to steam asparagus?

While a steamer can be a convenient way to cook asparagus, having one is unnecessary. You can steam asparagus using various other kitchen tools, such as a large pot with a steamer basket or a colander that fits inside a pot with a lid. You can also steam asparagus by using a little water in a large pot and laying the asparagus on top of that. The water will evaporate while cooking and cause a steam effect.

What's the best way to cook asparagus

There are several ways to cook asparagus. The best method may depend on your personal preferences and the equipment you have available. Here are a few popular methods for cooking asparagus: roasting, grilling, sauteeing, and steaming. I like steaming the asparagus for its bright and light texture and taste.

How to prevent asparagus from getting mushy

No one likes mushy asparagus! The best way to prevent it from getting mushy is to slightly steam it for 3-5 minutes and quickly remove from heat and place it in a water bath, or cold serving dish.

How to properly steam asparagus with a steamer basket

Fill a large pot with 1-inch water and fit it with a steamer basket. Make sure the water level is below the bottom of the steamer basket. Cover the saucepan with a lid and bring the water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus spears to the steamer basket in an even layer. Cover and steam until tender and bright green, 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and steam immediately.

Can I make Steamed Asparagus Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can steam asparagus and store it until ready to eat. Make ahead: Fill a large bowl with ice water. Cook the asparagus as directed in this recipe. Once the asparagus is crisp-tender (a little underdone), transfer it to the ice bath to stop the cooking. Once cooled, dry with paper towels —Refrigerate in a paper-towel-lined airtight container. When ready to serve, heat in a saucepan over medium heat with olive oil for 2 minutes to warm. Add a squeeze of lemon, and serve.

Simple Steamed Asparagus Recipe (Quick and Easy)

Name: Simple Steamed Asparagus Recipe (Quick and Easy)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 large bundle of asparagus (I prefer the thicker variety); 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmigiano cheese (parmesan cheese); Lemon wedges for serving; 3 Fresh basil, torn into small pieces

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 large bundle of asparagus (I prefer the thicker variety)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup freshly grated parmigiano cheese (parmesan cheese)
Lemon wedges for serving
3 Fresh basil, torn into small pieces

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Instructions

Wash and dry the asparagus. Trim the bottom 1 to 1 1/2 inches to remove the tough end or woody stem from the bottom of the asparagus.
Make Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice and zest, basil, salt and pepper, and parmigiano cheese. Whisk until combined. Cover and set aside.
Steam Asparagus (without steamer basket): Add just enough water to cover the bottom of the pan- large skillet (about 3/4 cup for a 12-inch skillet). Add the asparagus, cover with lid, and steam over medium-high heat until tender and bright green, 3 to 5 minutes. Poke the thickest part with a fork to test for doneness.
Steam Asparagus (with steamer basket): Add water to a pot to reach just under the steaming basket. Add the steamer basket and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add the asparagus—steam with the lid on for 2 to 5 minutes until crisp-tender. Poke the thickest part with a fork to test for doneness.
Season: Place the asparagus on a serving platter using a slotted spoon or kitchen tongs, draining away any water. While warm, toss gently with the prepared dressing. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy.

Notes

Top Tips

Do not overcook the asparagus. Since the cooking time is short, keep an eye on them and only cook until bright green and fork tender.

Author: Elena
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Savory
Method: Italian
Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: asparagus, steamed asparagus, side dish, easy side dish, best steamed asparagus