Asparagus is one of my favorite veggies. For one thing, its vitamin and mineral content reads like the back of a One A Day container. Then there's the taste and texture - crisp, crunchy, and earthy. Yummy!
But my absolute favorite part is asparagus' versatility. We know there's a ton of ways to cook it, but when the question is asked, “What goes with asparagus”, the answer is - EVERYTHING!
Asparagus is like that great friend that will go anyplace with you, try anything, and look completely natural doing it. It can be used in soups, stews, as an appetizer or a side.
So if you're all pumped up by this sleek and stunning vegetable, but are wondering what to have with asparagus, we've got a cornucopia of treats to offer.
From extraordinary grains and tasty sauces to healthy proteins and spreads. We've even thrown in an ancient Italian dessert to finish off the night.
Grains and Pastas
1. Authentic Italian Spaghetti
If you're looking for what to serve with asparagus that's rich and delicious yet super easy, you need to try this authentic Italian spaghetti recipe.
Made in the traditional ragù (meat) style, the fresh ingredients of tomatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, and fresh herbs.
While prep is a quick 15 minutes, you will need to set aside 3 hours for simmering, in order for all the flavors to come together. Use your choice of pasta and smother the vibrant red sauce over some blanched asparagus for a meal to remember.
2. Sweet Potato Fried Rice
Looking to wow the entire population of your home? This colorful, sweet potato fried rice is truly unique in flavor and appearance.
The best part is, it's nutritious and vegan! It's only 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking. Loaded with garlic, ginger, scallions, and sriracha, it's a spicy alternative to plain rice.
3. Herby Lemon Quinoa
Made with fresh and healthy ingredients, this vegan dish is great alongside asparagus for lunch or a light supper.
It takes only 20 minutes from prep to table, and the contrasting flavors of citrus, garlic, and nuts add to the earthiness of the wholesome quinoa.
Proteins
1. Grilled Chicken Breast
Let's face it, we all know that chicken breast is healthy, but it's not always delicious. It can often be dry. But that goes right out the window with this easy-to-make recipe that's loaded with herbs.
The trick is to grill it to a temperature of 160 degrees and then let it sit for 10 minutes to let the juices circulate.
2. Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs
Looking for what to eat with asparagus that offers guaranteed zing? These juicy barbecued chicken thighs are just perfect for any occasion.
Prep time is a scant 5 minutes and uses only a few ingredients like barbecue sauce, garlic, and hot sauce. The key is to bake them twice for extra crispness!
3. Prosciutto
This sweet and salty ham is often seasoned with herbs for a more fragrant flavor.
If you're looking to spice up your asparagus, wrap the stalks in this delicious Italian meat or just layer it on the side of the plate for a gorgeous presentation.
4. Poached Eggs
Poached eggs may not be the first dish that comes to mind when thinking about what to serve with asparagus, but imagine how a stunning breakfast or brunch could be with this combo.
They take only 15 minutes and aren't as hard to make as you think. They're also one of the healthiest ways to enjoy this tasty protein.
Sauces & Toppings
1. Hollandaise Sauce
Asparagus and Hollandaise sauce go together like peas and carrots. Unfortunately, many people think this creamy, French sauce is too difficult to make.
The good news is this recipe uses an immersion blender, which eliminates most of the whisking woes. It's just as delicious and is guaranteed to up your asparagus game.
2. Garlic Breadcrumbs
Admittedly, these tasty morsels are more of an addition to the veggies, but it enhances the asparagus experience just as well.
They're garlicky and golden brown to perfection in just 10 minutes. You can use these quick and easy-to-make panko crumbs to bread the asparagus for baking, frying, etc., and have plenty left for other recipes.
3. Lemon Vinaigrette
With just a few fresh ingredients like lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey, you can create a homemade dressing in just 5 minutes!
Simply toss everything into a blender! This creamy lime colored dressing makes a great dip for those asparagus tips! Add fresh mint for even more flavor!
4. Balsamic Glaze
This awesome glaze takes only 10 minutes and contains two ingredients (balsamic vinegar and brown sugar).
Add both to a pot and stir until the mix reaches a thick, chocolaty syrup consistency. It's a sweet and savory treat that's delicious over steamed asparagus or on the side as a dip.
5. Gremolata
Veggies lovers in your circle will fall hard for this fresh and healthy vegan topping made with parsley, garlic, and lemon zest.
You can also make different combinations using fresh cilantro, mint, lime, or orange. It's great on everything and really brings out the flavors in asparagus.
6. Almonds
Looking for a super quick and easy yet tasty way to dress up those asparagus tips. Sprinkle or shave some fresh almonds on top. It's a healthy way to dress up your dish!
Dips and Spreads
1. Hummus
This 10 minute vegan recipe is creamy, earthy, and low in calories. Hummus is a great alternative to heavier sauces for health-conscious guests.
Use a food processor to whip together chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice for a low calorie asparagus dip that's done in 10 minutes.
Dessert
1. Zabaglione
This rich and creamy custard has been a classic dessert in Italian homes for centuries. With only three simple ingredients of egg yolks, butter, and wine, it's easy to whip up in about 25 minutes.
Simply whisk everything or blend until you have a puffy consistency. It's the perfect indulgence after a meal that includes asparagus.
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