8 Ways to Cook Asparagus
This compilation video demos 8 popular methods to prep and serve asparagus. By no means an exhaustive list, you’ll get a good handle on basic prep and what to do with skinny spears versus thick spears, and even options for reducing food waste.
Fried Shavings
Marinated Shavings
Raw
Roasted
Broiled
Braised/ Shallow Boiled
Sauteed/Pan-Roasted
Steamed
8 Ways to Cook Asparagus:
Fried Shavings
- For one bunch of shavings (leftovers from shaving the ends of the spears), toss with 1 cup of Wondra flour (or cornstarch or potato starch). (Or, with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, replace 2 tbsp with cornstarch and sift twice) Heat oil (like canola or peanut oil) to 350F/175C. Add shavings in small batches and cook for 45-60 seconds. Remove and let drain on a paper towel. Sprinkle generously with salt. (food52.com)
Marinated Shavings
- Lay spears flat on cutting board. Try to evenly shave the entire spear. For remaining piece, cut into julienned strips. Toss with a vinaigrette/dressing or your favorite vinegar & olive oil. Serve on top arugula, toast, flatbread or pizza dough.
Raw
- Slice on the bias (extreme diagonal). For thicker spears, make slices thin.
Roasted
- Toss 1 bunch with 3 tbsp of olive oil and optional minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper (up to 1 tsp of salt for 1 bunch). Roast for 12-15 minutes at 425F/220C. Garnish with lemon juice, or toss with 1.5 tbsp grated parmesan/pecorino cheese, or almond flour. (allrecipes.com)
Broiled
- Toss 1 bunch with 3 tbsp of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper (up to 1 tsp of salt for 1 bunch). Broil on low for 4-6 minutes. Drizzle with vinegar or lemon juice. (foodnetwork.com)
Braised/Shallow Boiled
- Pour 3/4 inch of water into a wide skillet. Season with a garlic clove, a strip of lemon peel, or even a bay leaf. Bring to a boil and add spears in a single layer. If water does not cover the spears cover the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, or until the spears slide off a fork when pierced. (simplyrecipes.com)
Sauteed/Pan-Roasted
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a wide skillet. Add spears in a single layer and cook for 1-4 minutes, depending on the thickness of the spears. Sprinkle with grated cheese or almond flour. (happyfoodstube.com)
Steamed
- Bring an inch of water to a boil in a pot that can hold a steamer basket or strainer. Add spears and cover, cooking for 5-10 minutes depending on the spear size and your texture preference. Shock in ice col water, immediately, when done, to preserve the color.
