Asparagus With Lemon Caper Vinaigrette Recipe

A family favorite asparagus recipe! This vibrant dish features tender asparagus spears tossed in a bright, zesty lemon caper vinaigrette. Perfect as a side dish for any mild white fish or as a light and refreshing starter for your next dinner party. This make-ahead recipe is easy to double or triple, saving you time and effort. Get ready for a burst of fresh, lemony flavor in just 25 minutes!

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 124.3 kcal
Protein 5g
Rating 4.6 (9 Reviews)
Asparagus With Lemon Caper Vinaigrette

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Asparagus With Lemon Caper Vinaigrette

  • 1 pound asparagus
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Lemon, Juice Of
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • Dijon Mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Black Pepper
  • Olive Oil

How to Make Asparagus With Lemon Caper Vinaigrette

  1. Trim the tough ends off 1 pound of asparagus spears and place them in a large skillet.
  2. Add 1 cup of water, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the skillet.
  3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until the asparagus is crisp-tender.
  4. Remove the asparagus from the heat and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  5. While the asparagus cools, prepare the vinaigrette:
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons capers (drained), 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon sugar, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
  7. Slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup of olive oil while whisking rapidly until the vinaigrette emulsifies and slightly thickens.
  8. Gently toss the cooled asparagus with the lemon caper vinaigrette.
  9. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving. Enjoy warm or cold!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

77 g

Sugar

11g

Fat

7g

Carbs

2g