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Asparagus With Basil Parmesan Butter Recipe

This make-ahead recipe delivers vibrant, flavorful asparagus in just minutes! Creamy basil Parmesan butter is broiled to perfection, creating a stunning and delicious side dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. Prepare the components ahead of time, then broil to golden perfection for a truly impressive dish.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 11 mins
Calories 157 kcal
Protein 15g
Rating 4.6 (5 Reviews)
Asparagus With Basil Parmesan Butter

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Asparagus With Basil Parmesan Butter

  • 1 pound asparagus
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • Parmesan Cheese
  • Fresh Basil
  • 1 clove minced garlic
  • Fresh Lemon Juice

How to Make Asparagus With Basil Parmesan Butter

  1. Snap off the tough ends of 1 pound asparagus spears.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add asparagus and cook until crisp-tender, about 3-4 minutes. Immediately plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
  3. Preheat your broiler to high.
  4. While the asparagus cooks, prepare the butter mixture: In a medium bowl, beat 1/2 cup (1 stick) of softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy.
  5. Beat in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 1 clove minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
  6. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Drain the asparagus thoroughly and arrange it in a single layer on a broiler-safe baking sheet.
  8. Drop spoonfuls of the Parmesan-basil butter mixture evenly over the asparagus.
  9. Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

11 g

Sugar

6g

Fat

38g

Carbs

1g

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