Asparagus Spears With Lemon Tarragon Butter
Bright, buttery asparagus tossed with zesty lemon and aromatic tarragon—perfect for a quick, elegant side that pairs well with grilled meats or a light salad.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan.
- Stir in the chopped tarragon and lemon peel until fragrant.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for 2 minutes.
- Pour the warm butter over the cooked asparagus and toss to coat evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using clarified butter in place of regular butter. If you don't have tarragon, fresh basil or dill can be good substitutes. Make sure to use fresh lemon peel for the best aroma and taste. When cooking asparagus, choose spears that are firm and bright green for optimal freshness. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the asparagus warm as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Home Town Potato Salad for a hearty picnic spread. You can also garnish with extra lemon zest or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. This dish complements a variety of vegetarian recipes, making it a versatile addition to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently steam or sauté the asparagus in a little olive oil until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the asparagus soggy and diminish its flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Spears With Lemon Tarragon Butter contains roughly 33 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% 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?
While fresh asparagus is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen asparagus in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before applying the lemon tarragon butter to avoid excess moisture.
What other herbs can I use instead of tarragon?
If you don't have tarragon on hand, fresh basil or dill can work as excellent alternatives. Each herb will impart its unique flavor, so feel free to experiment to find your preferred taste.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To turn this side into a more substantial dish, consider adding quinoa or farro as a base. Toss the cooked asparagus and lemon tarragon butter with the grains for a delicious and filling vegetarian meal.
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).