Herbed Asparagus
Herbed asparagus tossed in a fragrant herb butter, topped with Parmesan cheese, perfect as an elegant side dish for spring gatherings or light dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blanch asparagus in boiling water for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes. Remove to paper towels and pat dry.
- In a small bowl, combine butter with chopped parsley, chives, dill, rosemary, and ground black pepper.
- Melt the herb-butter over medium heat in a large skillet.
- Add the asparagus to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the herb-butter.
- Transfer the asparagus to a serving platter and top with shaved Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh herbs and adjust the amount to your liking. If you're out of any of the herbs, feel free to substitute with similar ones or use dried herbs—just reduce the amount. To enhance the dish further, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness. This herbed asparagus pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Pesto-Macaroni Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the herbed asparagus as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. It complements well with a light pasta dish, such as Greek Style Penne, or as part of an Antipasto Party Tray. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving can elevate the dish even more.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently sauté in a pan over low heat until warmed through, or microwave for 30 seconds, stirring halfway. Avoid overheating to keep the asparagus crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Asparagus contains roughly 292 calories, with 9g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), iron (23% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before blanching, as frozen asparagus is often pre-cooked.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are excellent substitutes. For a dairy-free option, consider using nutritional yeast to give a cheesy flavor without the milk.
How do I know when the asparagus is properly blanched?
The asparagus should turn bright green and be slightly tender but still crisp. Typically, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes in boiling water is sufficient. You can test a piece by tasting it; it should have a vibrant color and a slight crunch.
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).