How to Cook Asparagus (Simple Recipe!)

If you’re wondering how to cook asparagus you’ll love this Simple Broiled Asparagus. Big on flavor and easy on prep!

Simple Broiled Asparagus

If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook than you probably know that I bought a huge quantity of asparagus and strawberries from Bountiful Baskets this past weekend. Mmmm. It’s been a tasty week.

I’ve been busy getting the asparagus into the freezer (how to on the way!), and we’ve been enjoying it nightly with dinner. This is such and easy and simple asparagus recipe that I had to share. If you are new to the vegetable, this is a great introduction because you just can’t go wrong. It takes less than 15 minutes and they are cooked to asparagus perfection. Serve with some grilled chicken and rice pilaf and you have yourself a meal fit for a king.

Really, the simple asparagus recipes are the best. Why cover up a good thing?

I tried to make a balsamic reduction to drizzle on top but I cooked it too long and made balsamic vinegar taffy! And yes, I threw a chunk in my mouth to taste it…. blech! It’s not a typical candy flavor for a reason and the recipe isn’t here for the same reason. It was just bad. I ended up picking off the glaze (yes, it was that stiff) after I took the picture. Lesson learned, keep it simple and just broil the veggies and let them be!

Tips and Tricks for Simple Broiled Asparagus:

• Choose slender asparagus that is no larger than a pencil. The fatter the asparagus the more woody in texture it’ll be. The tips should also be closed tight and a bright color.
• Store asparagus properly. Most bunches are bound together with a rubber band. As soon as you are home, remove that band. This helps to prevent bruising and that tight band can cause a rubbery texture. Store the loose asparagus in a produce bag in the fridge until you are ready to use it.
• Wash the asparagus. Remove dirt and grit that can be found in the tips. I like to fill a bowl with cold water and soak the asparagus for a couple of minutes, then rinse. This should remove any yuckiness.

Which part of the asparagus do you cut off?

Asparagus have a natural breaking point. Gently bend the asparagus and you’ll feel where it wants to break then simply snap off. You can cut multiple at time by using a knife. Remove the tough, white looking ends. Typically about an inch down.

Simple Broiled Asparagus

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• Author: Melissa Griffiths-Bless This Mess
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4-6 1x

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Description

If you’re wondering how to cook asparagus you’ll love this simple recipe for classic roasted asparagus. Big on flavor and easy on prep!

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Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 1 pound asparagus, tough ends trimmed off
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh lemon juice, optional

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Instructions

1. Adjust the oven rack so that is it 6 inches from the broiler/heating element of your stove. Turn on the broiler and let the oven heat. Toss the asparagus in oil and then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Lay the spears out in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
2. Let the asparagus broil for around 10 minutes until they are tender and just a little browned. Sprinkle with lemon juice before serving.

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Notes

Choose slender asparagus that is no larger than a pencil. The fatter the asparagus the more woody in texture it’ll be. The tips should also be closed tight and a bright color.

• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Oven
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: how to cook asparagus, easy roasted asparagus recipe, simple asparagus recipe

If you love asparagus, try these recipes:

• Baked Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
• 7 Ways to Keep and Cook Asparagus
• Sausage Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto
• Asparagus Recipes for Spring

Thanks for stopping in!