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Asparagus – The Ultimate Guide to Cooking By Steaming

Asparagus is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. But did you know that steaming is the best way to cook asparagus? Not only does it preserve the vegetable's vibrant green color and delicate flavor, but it also ensures that it retains its nutritional value. In this ultimate guide, we'll take you through the step-by-step process of steaming asparagus to perfection. From selecting the freshest spears at the grocery store to seasoning and serving them, we'll cover everything you need to know. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will help you master the art of cooking asparagus by steaming. So grab your apron and let's get started!

Health Benefits of Asparagus

Before we delve into the details of how to steam asparagus, let's first talk about the health benefits of this delicious vegetable. Asparagus is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Some of the most significant health benefits of asparagus include:

1. Digestive Health

Asparagus is high in fiber, which is essential for maintaining good digestive health. Fiber helps to regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and keep your digestive system functioning properly.

2. Strong Bones

Asparagus is an excellent source of vitamin K, which is essential for strong bones. It helps to improve calcium absorption and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

3. Healthy Heart

Asparagus is a good source of folate, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Folate helps to lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

4. Improved Brain Function

Asparagus contains vitamin B6, which is essential for maintaining healthy brain function. Vitamin B6 helps to produce neurotransmitters that are important for mood regulation and cognitive function.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Asparagus contains antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties. These antioxidants can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.

Selecting the Best Asparagus

When it comes to cooking asparagus, selecting the freshest spears is crucial. Look for asparagus with firm, straight stalks and tight tips. The color of the stalks should be vibrant green or purple, depending on the variety. Avoid asparagus with wilted or slimy stalks, as this is a sign that they are past their prime.

When selecting asparagus, it's also important to consider the thickness of the stalks. Thicker stalks are better for grilling or roasting, while thinner stalks are better for steaming. Thicker stalks take longer to cook, and they can be tough and fibrous if not cooked properly.

How to Prepare Asparagus for Steaming

Once you have selected the freshest asparagus, it's time to prepare them for steaming. Start by rinsing the asparagus under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, trim off the woody ends of the stalks. The woody ends are tough and fibrous, and they are not pleasant to eat. To do this, hold the asparagus spear at each end and bend it until it snaps. The spear will naturally snap at the point where the woody part ends and the tender part begins.

Next, you can choose to peel the asparagus, although this step is optional. Peeling the asparagus can help to remove any tough outer layers, making it more tender and flavorful. To peel the asparagus, use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer layer of the stalk, starting from just below the tip and working your way down to the woody end. This step is not necessary for thin asparagus, but it can help improve the texture of thicker stalks.

Steaming Asparagus

Now that you have prepared the asparagus, it's time to steam it to perfection. Steaming is the best way to cook asparagus because it preserves the vegetable's delicate flavor and vibrant green color. It also ensures that the asparagus retains its nutritional value.

To steam asparagus, you will need a steaming basket or a pot with a fitted lid. Fill the pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, place the asparagus in the steaming basket or directly into the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the asparagus for 3-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the stalks. Thicker stalks will take longer to cook, while thinner stalks will cook more quickly.

To check if the asparagus is done, use a fork to pierce the thickest part of the stalk. The fork should easily slide into the asparagus without any resistance. If the asparagus is still too firm, continue steaming for an additional minute or two, then check again.

Seasoning and Serving Asparagus

Steamed asparagus is delicious on its own, but you can also season it with a variety of herbs and spices to enhance its flavor. Some popular seasoning options include:

- Salt and pepper - Lemon juice and zest - Garlic and butter - Parmesan cheese

Once you have seasoned the asparagus, it's time to serve it. You can serve it hot or cold, depending on your preference. Asparagus makes a great side dish for a variety of meals, including grilled chicken, steak, or fish. It can also be used in salads, soups, and stir-fries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, steaming asparagus is the best way to cook this delicious and nutritious vegetable. Steaming preserves its vibrant green color and delicate flavor, while also ensuring that it retains its nutritional value. By following the steps outlined in this ultimate guide, you can master the art of cooking asparagus by steaming. So the next time you're in the kitchen, grab some fresh asparagus, and give steaming a try. Your taste buds and your body will thank you.

Steamed Asparagus Meal Ideas
Campfire Foil Packs

Campfire Foil Packs might be just the main course you are searching for. This recipe serves 4. One portion of this dish contains about 32g of protein, 17g of fat, and a total of 448 calories. For $2.23 per serving, this recipe covers 30% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. 1261 person found this recipe to be yummy and satisfying. From preparation to the plate, this recipe takes roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes. This recipe from Allrecipes requires chicken breast meat, bell pepper, mushrooms, and bell pepper. It is a good option if you're following a gluten free, dairy free, and whole 30 diet. Taking all factors into account, this recipe earns a spoonacular score of 98%, which is tremendous. Similar recipes are Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, Campfire Quesadilla, and You’ll Flip for These Skinny Frozen S’mores, No Campfire Needed.

Asparagus Potato Soup

Asparagus Potato Soup might be just the main course you are searching for. This recipe makes 7 servings with 389 calories, 12g of protein, and 29g of fat each. For $1.01 per serving, this recipe covers 13% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. 31 person were impressed by this recipe. Head to the store and pick up cheddar cheese, potatoes, celery, and a few other things to make it today. It is brought to you by Taste of Home. It is perfect for Winter. From preparation to the plate, this recipe takes about 30 minutes. All things considered, we decided this recipe deserves a spoonacular score of 48%. This score is good. Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Crispy-Fried Potato Skins, Asparagus Soup, and Cedar Smoked Asparagus Soup are very similar to this recipe.

Grilled Mahi Mahi Fillets and Asparagus with Orange and Sesame

Grilled Mahi Mahi Fillets and Asparagus with Orange and Sesame is a gluten free, dairy free, and pescatarian main course. One portion of this dish contains approximately 37g of protein, 7g of fat, and a total of 273 calories. This recipe serves 4. For $7.51 per serving, this recipe covers 31% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. 1 person has made this recipe and would make it again. If you have ginger root, juice of lime, blades chives, and a few other ingredients on hand, you can make it. From preparation to the plate, this recipe takes approximately 35 minutes. It is brought to you by Foodnetwork. It can be enjoyed any time, but it is especially good for The Fourth Of July. All things considered, we decided this recipe deserves a spoonacular score of 74%. This score is pretty good. Users who liked this recipe also liked Mahi-Mahi With Lemon Caper Sauce, Hot and Sour Grilled Fish Fillets, and Perch Fillets With Shrimp and Vermouth Sauce.

Salmon and Asparagus with Penne and Light Cream Sauce

The recipe Salmon and Asparagus with Penne and Light Cream Sauce can be made in about 50 minutes. This recipe serves 2 and costs $4.22 per serving. One serving contains 1067 calories, 32g of protein, and 102g of fat. It is a good option if you're following a gluten free, primal, and pescatarian diet. A couple people really liked this main course. It is brought to you by Allrecipes. A mixture of dill weed, garlic, heavy cream, and a handful of other ingredients are all it takes to make this recipe so scrumptious. 51 person have tried and liked this recipe. Overall, this recipe earns an outstanding spoonacular score of 87%. If you like this recipe, take a look at these similar recipes: Penne Con Funghi E Melanzane (Penne With Mushrooms and Eggplant), Penne With Shrimp and Herbed Cream Sauce, and Light Cream Of Broccoli Soup With Cheddar Cheese.

Orange Bundt Cake

Orange Bundt Cake requires around 55 minutes from start to finish. This recipe serves 14. One portion of this dish contains about 3g of protein, 2g of fat, and a total of 211 calories. For 33 cents per serving, this recipe covers 4% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. 1 person has made this recipe and would make it again. If you have confectioners' sugar, cake mix, whipped topping mix, and a few other ingredients on hand, you can make it. Not a lot of people really liked this dessert. It is brought to you by Taste of Home. Taking all factors into account, this recipe earns a spoonacular score of 0%, which is improvable. Users who liked this recipe also liked Lemon Bundt Cake, Bittersweet Chocolate-Walnut Bundt Cake, and Chocolate Asparagus Bundt Cake.

Asparagus Cream Cheese Omelet

If you want to add more gluten free, lacto ovo vegetarian, primal, and ketogenic recipes to your collection, Asparagus Cream Cheese Omelet might be a recipe you should try. For $1.54 per serving, this recipe covers 14% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. One serving contains 342 calories, 15g of protein, and 28g of fat. This recipe serves 2. This recipe from Taste of Home has 1 fans. It works well as a main course. A mixture of asparagus spears, butter, salt, and a handful of other ingredients are all it takes to make this recipe so yummy. From preparation to the plate, this recipe takes approximately 20 minutes. All things considered, we decided this recipe deserves a spoonacular score of 41%. This score is good. Try Cheddar, Spinach, and Pepper Omelet Bagel Sandwich, Greek Inspired Spring Omelet, and Loaded Veggie Omelet for similar recipes.

Mushroom Salisbury Steak

Mushroom Salisbury Steak is a hor d'oeuvre that serves 6. One serving contains 231 calories, 10g of protein, and 2g of fat. For 66 cents per serving, this recipe covers 9% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. 5 people found this recipe to be delicious and satisfying. Head to the store and pick up condensed beef consomme, mushrooms, worcestershire sauce, and a few other things to make it today. It is brought to you by Taste of Home. It is a good option if you're following a dairy free diet. From preparation to the plate, this recipe takes roughly 30 minutes. It can be enjoyed any time, but it is especially good for valentin day. Taking all factors into account, this recipe earns a spoonacular score of 52%, which is good. If you like this recipe, you might also like recipes such as French Onion Salisbury Steak, Flank Steak with Mushroom Sauce, and Entrecote Steak with Asparagus.

Grilled Chicken and Potato Foil Packs

Grilled Chicken and Potato Foil Packs requires around 50 minutes from start to finish. This gluten free, dairy free, and whole 30 recipe serves 4 and costs $2.45 per serving. One portion of this dish contains approximately 36g of protein, 9g of fat, and a total of 540 calories. The Fourth Of July will be even more special with this recipe. 115 people have made this recipe and would make it again. Several people really liked this main course. If you have potatoes, bell pepper, basil, and a few other ingredients on hand, you can make it. It is brought to you by Allrecipes. Taking all factors into account, this recipe earns a spoonacular score of 99%, which is awesome. Similar recipes are Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, Grilled Chicken & Corn Red Potato Salad, and Grilled Potato Skins.

Ziti With Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

You can never have too many hor d'oeuvre recipes, so give Ziti With Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes a try. Watching your figure? This dairy free and pescatarian recipe has 354 calories, 11g of protein, and 7g of fat per serving. For 94 cents per serving, this recipe covers 13% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. This recipe serves 6. From preparation to the plate, this recipe takes roughly 45 minutes. 1 person were impressed by this recipe. Only a few people really liked this Mediterranean dish. It is brought to you by Allrecipes. A mixture of anchovy, anchovy, greek olives, and a handful of other ingredients are all it takes to make this recipe so flavorful. Overall, this recipe earns a good spoonacular score of 78%. Try Chicken with Sun Dried Tomatoes and Olives, Quinoan and Chickpea Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Dried Cherries, and Baked Eggs With Asparagus and Sun Dried Tomatoes for similar recipes.

Asparagus Tofu Stir-Fry

Asparagus Tofu Stir-Fry takes roughly 35 minutes from beginning to end. One portion of this dish contains about 16g of protein, 11g of fat, and a total of 298 calories. For $2.44 per serving, this recipe covers 20% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. This recipe serves 4. It works well as a main course. 1 person has tried and liked this recipe. If you have summer squash, asparagus, canolan oil, and a few other ingredients on hand, you can make it. It is a good option if you're following a gluten free, dairy free, lacto ovo vegetarian, and vegan diet. It is brought to you by Taste of Home. With a spoonacular score of 64%, this dish is solid. Similar recipes are Tofu Pineapple Stir-Fry, Asparagus Stir-Fry With Black Bean Sauce, and Karela Fry/bittergourd Fry.

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