How Long To Steam Asparagus

Thin and Thick Asparagus

Whether you have thin or thick asparagus, steaming brings out its fresh flavor. Thin spears cook fast, so keep an eye on them.

Thick ones take longer, and if they’re really thick, peel the tough outer layer from the bottom half with a vegetable peeler so they’re not stringy when you bite into them.

Recipe For Steamed Asparagus

1. Trim the woody ends by cutting about an inch from the bottom.
2. Rinse the spears under cold water.
3. Fill a medium or large pot with about an inch of water and place a steamer basket inside. The water line should be right below the basket.
4. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Add the asparagus to the steamer basket and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Reduce the heat to medium and steam for 3-5 minutes, adjusting based on the thickness of the spears.
6. Serve hot.

Tip: If not serving immediately, transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and keep its bright green color.

Toppings

Steamed asparagus is delicious straight from the pot with a little flaky sea salt and freshly ground pepper.

Here are some ideas for adding more flavors to your steamed asparagus:

• Butter & Lemon
• Garlic & Parmesan
• Olive Oil & Balsamic
• Crushed Red Pepper & Sea Salt
• Hollandaise Sauce
• Toasted Almonds or Pine Nuts

Steaming Times

• Thin spears (pencil-sized): 2 to 3 minutes
• Medium spears (standard thickness): 3 to 4 minutes
• Thick spears (larger than a finger): 4 to 5 minutes

For thick stalks, peel the light colored ends with a vegetable peeler. They are very stringy and not good to eat.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover steamed asparagus in an airtight container or a resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the asparagus for 1 to 2 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally.
• Microwave: Place asparagus on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for 30 seconds to one minute until warm.

Uses for Steamed Asparagus

Steamed asparagus is a healthy side dish that pairs well with fish, meat, or chicken dinners.

• Slice and toss into salads for extra crunch.
• Chop into small pieces and add to scrambled eggs or use as an omelet filling.
• Mix with cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, and cracked black pepper.
• Stir into a meat or chicken stir-fry at the end of cooking.
• Use as a pizza topping.

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftover steamed asparagus in an airtight container or a resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended.
• Reheat cooked asparagus in a skillet with a little olive oil or butter until warm.

More Tasty Vegetable Recipes

• Lemon Asparagus Rice
• Steamed Broccoli and Carrots Recipe
• Roasted Cauliflower and Asparagus with Carrots
• Roasted Asparagus
• Oven Roasted Vegetables with Garlic
• Roasted Tiny Red Potatoes
• Oven Roasted Baby Gold Potatoes