Vegetable | Vegan Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Fat

Asparagus

Asparagus officinalis Allergen-Free
Asparagus

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Asparagaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean
  • Seasonality Spring
  • Source Plant

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A perennial flowering plant whose young shoots are eaten as a spring vegetable. Known for its distinct flavor and tender-crisp texture.

Sensory Profile

TasteEarthy, Slightly bitter, Umami
TextureCrisp-tender, Fibrous, Succulent
AromaGrassy, Earthy, Mild sulfurous
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 100 g
Calories20 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0.0 g
Trans Fat0.0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein2.2 g
Total Carbohydrate3.9 g
Dietary Fiber2.1 g
Total Sugars1.8 g
Calcium24 mg
Iron2.1 mg
Potassium202 mg

Chef’s Secret

To avoid stringiness, snap off the woody ends of asparagus instead of cutting them. Roast or grill for best flavor.

Substitutions

Best Match

Green Beans

1:1

Good for similar crunch and form factor in side dishes.

Broccoli Florets

1:1

Offers similar texture and green vegetable benefits, but different flavor.

Zucchini Sticks

1:1

Sugar Snap Peas

1:1

Sweeter, crisper, good for raw applications or light stir-fries.

Buying Guide

Look for firm, brightly colored spears with tightly closed tips. Avoid limp or woody stalks.

Flavor Pairings

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Poached Eggs Salmon Hollandaise Sauce.

Recipes Using Asparagus

Side Dishes Casseroles Side Dishes Time To Make

A B C Vegetable Casserole

This classic vegetable casserole, a treasured family recipe passed down through generations, is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy asparagus, broccoli, and cauliflower. Creamy mushroom soup and melted cheese create a rich and satisfying sauce, while crispy onion rings add a delightful crunch. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck contribution!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Asparagus 30 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Asparagus

Indulge in this decadent and dreamy Angel Hair Pasta with Creamy Asparagus! Rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh asparagus flavor, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, it's surprisingly easy to make in just 25 minutes. Don't worry about counting calories – this is pure deliciousness!

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Occasion 5 Ingredients Or Less European Preparation

Asparagi Alla Parmigiana Italian Asparagus Gratin

This delectable Asparagi alla Parmigiana recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy gratin that's perfect as a side dish or light vegetarian main course. Tender asparagus spears are layered with melted Parmesan cheese and baked to golden perfection. Easily customizable with variations including prosciutto, fontina cheese, and lemon zest, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite! Get ready for a taste of Italy in under 35 minutes!

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Cheese Asparagus Time To Make Equipment

Asparagus And Cheese Crock Pot Casserole

This dreamy Asparagus and Cheese Crock-Pot Casserole is the perfect make-ahead side dish for your next family dinner or potluck! Tender asparagus spears are coated in a creamy cheese sauce and slow-cooked to perfection in your crock-pot. Easily adaptable using fresh or frozen asparagus, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to disappear quickly. Get ready for cheesy, delicious goodness!

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Gluten Free Asparagus Low Carb 15 Minutes Or Less

Asparagus Bocconcini

This simple yet elegant Asparagus Bocconcini Salad is a crowd-pleaser! Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe features tender roasted asparagus, creamy bocconcini cheese, and briny olives, all tossed in a bright vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer.

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Number Of Servings Finger Food Dinner Party Dietary

Asparagus Cigars

These elegant Asparagus Cigars, inspired by Gourmet Magazine's December 2005 issue, are the perfect show-stopping hors d'oeuvre for your next gathering. Crispy, crunchy, and bursting with fresh asparagus flavor, they're surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Time To Make Low Carb 15 Minutes Or Less Low In Something

Asparagus In Tarragon Hollandaise Sauce Good And Fancy

Elevate simple asparagus into a restaurant-worthy dish with this quick and easy tarragon hollandaise sauce. Perfect for using seasonal asparagus, this recipe is both elegant and surprisingly simple to make. Looking for a twist? Substitute the tarragon with 2 tablespoons of fresh dill, 1/4 cup of chervil, or 1 tablespoon of lemon thyme!

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Eggs Dairy Taste Mood Casseroles Asparagus

Asparagus Parmigiano

Elevate your meal with this stunning Asparagus Parmigiano recipe! Perfect as a vegetarian main course for brunch, lunch, or dinner, or a sophisticated side dish to impress. The delicate asparagus is beautifully complemented by a rich tomato sauce and creamy cheeses. A dollop of cottage cheese (optional) adds a delightful tang. Serves 2-4.

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Easy Penne 15 Minutes Or Less Beginner Cook

Asparagus Penne

A vibrant and flavorful 15-minute pasta dish! This Asparagus Penne recipe features tender penne pasta tossed with perfectly blistered cherry tomatoes, crisp-tender asparagus, and a hint of garlic. A quick and easy weeknight meal that's both satisfying and delicious!

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Taste Mood Eggs Dairy Course Beginner Cook

Asparagus Sauce

Transform leftover asparagus into a luscious sauce in just 10 minutes! This simple recipe is perfect for using up extra asparagus spears or tips. Delicious hot or cold, and easily freezable for future meals. Great served over pasta, salmon, or chicken. Get creative and adjust ingredients to your liking!

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Main Ingredient Main Dish Pasta Rice And Grains Time To Make

Asparagus Splendida

This stunning pasta dish, perfected over four years and a crowd-pleaser at countless cooking demonstrations, delivers a delightful crunch with every bite of perfectly roasted asparagus. The recipe balances bright, fresh asparagus with creamy, savory pasta for a truly unforgettable meal. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this elegant yet surprisingly easy recipe!

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Vegetables Strawberries Occasion Low Cholesterol

Asparagus Strawberry Salad

A vibrant and surprisingly delicious salad! Sweet strawberries meet crisp asparagus in a creamy poppy seed dressing, topped with crumbly blue cheese. This unique recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a stunning appetizer. Prep time includes chilling for optimal flavor.

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Vegetables Healthy Course 15 Minutes Or Less

Asparagus With Maple Mustard Sauce

This quick and easy Betty Crocker-inspired recipe elevates simple asparagus into a delicious side dish. Sweet maple syrup blends perfectly with tangy mustard and a touch of oil to create a vibrant sauce that complements the tender-crisp asparagus spears. Ready in under 20 minutes!

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Vegetarian Low In Something Low Cholesterol Dietary

Asparagus With Olive Oil Herbs

Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant and flavorful asparagus recipe! Tender asparagus spears are tossed in a fragrant herb-infused olive oil and roasted to perfection. A burst of fresh lemon brightens the dish, creating a simple yet elegant side that's perfect for any occasion. Ready in under 30 minutes!

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Time To Make Main Ingredient Low Calorie Side Dishes

Baked Asparagus Spinach Risotto

This effortless Baked Asparagus Spinach Risotto from Cooking Light is a game-changer! No more tedious risotto stirring – this oven-baked version delivers creamy, cheesy perfection with minimal effort. Asparagus and spinach add vibrant color and healthy nutrients to this surprisingly simple dish. Get ready for a restaurant-quality meal in under an hour!

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Main Ingredient Side Dishes Preparation Vegetables

Balsamic Asparagus With Bacon Yum

Impress your guests with this easy yet elegant Balsamic Glazed Asparagus with Crispy Bacon recipe! This simple dish requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum flavor. Sweet and savory notes perfectly complement the tender asparagus and crispy bacon, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion or a light yet satisfying meal. Get ready to wow your friends and family with this surprisingly sophisticated recipe – they'll never guess how easy it is!

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Time To Make Low Calorie Dietary Low Sodium

Beef And Asparagus Stir Fry

This vibrant Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying weeknight meal! Enjoy tender beef and crisp-tender asparagus tossed in a savory soy-based sauce with colorful bell peppers and onions. Easily customizable – use fresh or frozen asparagus, and feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Ready in under 40 minutes.

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Taste Mood Romantic Equipment Oven

Lemon Butter Salmon With Capers And Asparagus

Impress your guests with this elegant yet easy Lemon Butter Salmon recipe! Perfectly flaky salmon fillets are baked alongside tender asparagus, then drizzled with a bright, zesty lemon-butter caper sauce. This show-stopping dish is perfect for Mother's Day, a special dinner party, or a weeknight treat. Serve with rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

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