Asparagus Parmesan
Tender asparagus tossed with buttery Parmesan and seasoned with salt and pepper, offering a simple yet flavorful side perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, bring water to a boil.
- Add asparagus and 1 teaspoon salt; cover and cook for 5 minutes or until tender-crisp.
- Drain the asparagus.
- In the same skillet, add butter or margarine and melt.
- Return the asparagus to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose bright green asparagus and avoid any that appear wilted. If you're short on time, pre-cut asparagus can be found in many grocery stores. For a twist, consider adding lemon zest or garlic to the butter for extra flavor. If you prefer a different cheese, try using Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a stronger taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Asparagus Parmesan as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a healthy meal. It also pairs beautifully with Vegetarian recipes, making it a versatile option for meatless dinners. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a light salad topped with Ginger Cheese Dressing.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Asparagus Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help steam the asparagus, or microwave it in short intervals until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the asparagus crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Parmesan contains roughly 175 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (108% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 575mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
Yes, frozen asparagus can be used, but it may require a longer cooking time to achieve the desired tenderness. Be sure to thaw it first and drain any excess moisture to prevent a watery dish.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use Grana Padano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both will provide a similar umami flavor that complements the asparagus well.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure all vegetables are tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).