As the last wisps of winter’s chill dissipate, our taste buds start to crave the bright, sunny flavors of spring. And what better way to herald the season than with a beloved ingredient that’s as fresh and green as the season itself: white asparagus? Thin, tender spears bursting with citrusy sweetness, perfect for snacking or showcasing in a wide range of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering ways to enjoy white asparagus, from comforting soups and creamy sauces to elegant salads and show-stopping brunch ideas.
Stay tuned for our roundup of the most delicious and innovative white asparagus recipes that will make your springtime meals shine!
Creamy White Asparagus Soup with Lemon Zest
This refreshing soup is perfect for springtime, highlighting the delicate flavor of white asparagus. With a creamy texture and a burst of citrus from lemon zest, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the asparagus and cook for 5 minutes, or until tender.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend until creamy.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, garlic, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce
White asparagus, also known as white gold, is a seasonal treat that shines when paired with the rich and creamy hollandaise sauce. This classic combination is perfect for special occasions or a sophisticated dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for 4-6 minutes or until slightly tender. Drain and shock in an ice bath.
2. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg yolks and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Set a saucepan over simmering water and place the butter pieces on top of the water.
4. Slowly melt the butter into the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve the white asparagus with hollandaise sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled White Asparagus with Garlic Butter
Elevate your springtime meals with this easy and delicious recipe for grilled white asparagus. The combination of tender asparagus, rich garlic butter, and smoky grill flavor is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of asparagus spears with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill asparagus for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush asparagus with garlic butter mixture.
6. Remove from grill and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Asparagus and Prosciutto Bundles
A refreshing and elegant appetizer or snack, these bundles combine the tender sweetness of white asparagus with the salty savory flavor of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 white asparagus spears, trimmed
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place an asparagus spear on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small border around each stem.
4. Wrap a slice of prosciutto around the asparagus, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients, placing bundles about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until asparagus is tender and prosciutto crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
White Asparagus Risotto with Parmesan
Celebrate the tender flavor of white asparagus with this creamy risotto recipe. A perfect springtime dish, it’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. In a separate pot, bring broth to a simmer.
5. In another pot, combine rice and 1 cup broth; whisk constantly.
6. Gradually add remaining broth, stirring constantly, until creamy.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper.
8. Combine cooked asparagus mixture into risotto; toss to coat.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Roasted White Asparagus with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your springtime meals with this simple yet impressive side dish featuring roasted white asparagus and a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for special occasions or everyday dining.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. While asparagus is roasting, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan.
7. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until reduced by half (about 5 minutes).
8. Remove from oven and toss roasted asparagus with the warm balsamic glaze.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Asparagus and Mushroom Quiche
This quiche is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender white asparagus and earthy mushrooms in a creamy egg custard. It’s an excellent brunch option or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, sauté asparagus, mushrooms, butter, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange the cooked vegetable mixture in the pie crust, then pour in the egg custard.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
7. Garnish with thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
White Asparagus Salad with Poached Eggs
A light and refreshing spring-inspired salad featuring tender white asparagus, creamy poached eggs, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the asparagus. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
2. While the asparagus cooks, bring another pot of water to a simmer. Crack in the eggs and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked asparagus and poached eggs to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Asparagus Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce
This creamy pasta dish is a perfect springtime treat, showcasing the tender flavor of white asparagus and the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 1 pound fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and lemon juice. Pour sauce into the skillet with asparagus and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta and asparagus mixture in a large serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Asparagus Gratin with Gruyère Cheese
This creamy gratin showcases the tender sweetness of white asparagus perfectly balanced by the nutty richness of Gruyère cheese. A perfect side dish for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg, to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer asparagus to a baking dish. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the top.
4. Drizzle heavy cream over the cheese, then season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Asparagus and Smoked Salmon Tart
This elegant tart combines the delicate flavor of white asparagus with the rich smokiness of salmon, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party. The creamy goat cheese and flaky pastry crust add a delightful texture to this refined dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 12 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 lb white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, sauté asparagus in olive oil until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange asparagus on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with flaked salmon.
5. Sprinkle goat cheese over the filling.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape. Seal edges by pressing gently with a fork.
7. Brush the pastry with a little water and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Asparagus with Brown Butter and Almonds
This elegant side dish highlights the delicate flavor of white asparagus, paired with a rich brown butter and crunchy almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Dot the top of each asparagus spear with butter and sprinkle with garlic.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
6. While the asparagus is roasting, melt the remaining butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
7. Continue cooking the butter, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
8. Remove from heat and stir in sliced almonds.
9. Serve the roasted asparagus warm with the brown butter and almond sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 17-20 minutes
White Asparagus and Potato Hash
A flavorful and textured side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course. This recipe combines the delicate taste of white asparagus with the comforting warmth of crispy potato hash.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss asparagus with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
4. Once asparagus is done, add it to the potato mixture and stir to combine.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Asparagus Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a perfect way to enjoy the tender sweetness of white asparagus. With the added zing of fresh ginger and savory soy sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced ginger and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the asparagus and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the asparagus and stir-fry for an additional minute to coat.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Asparagus and Crab Salad
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this refreshing salad featuring tender white asparagus, succulent crab meat, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for 4-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Drain and rinse under cold running water.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the crab meat and gently fold to combine with the dressing.
4. Arrange the asparagus on a serving plate or platter. Top with the crab salad and garnish with chopped chives or parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
White Asparagus Frittata with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your brunch game with this elegant and flavorful frittata featuring tender white asparagus, fresh herbs, and a hint of citrus. Perfect for springtime gatherings or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 pound white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour egg mixture over asparagus in the skillet. Cook until edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Sprinkle parsley and chives on top. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are set.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
White Asparagus and Leek Soup
This soup is a delightful springtime treat that showcases the tender flavors of white asparagus and leeks. A comforting and creamy blend, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add white asparagus and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until asparagus is tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend, then return to pot.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Asparagus with Tarragon Mustard Dressing
Elevate the flavors of fresh white asparagus with a tangy and herbaceous tarragon mustard dressing. This simple yet elegant side dish is perfect for spring gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh tarragon leaves, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange asparagus in a single layer; drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together tarragon, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar to make the dressing.
6. Serve roasted asparagus warm, drizzled with the tarragon mustard dressing.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
As spring arrives, indulge in the sweet and tender flavor of white asparagus with these 18 creamy recipes. From comforting soups to decadent pasta dishes, we’ve got you covered. Enjoy classic pairings like Hollandaise sauce or Balsamic glaze, or get adventurous with prosciutto bundles, mushroom quiche, or smoked salmon tart. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing salad or a rich and indulgent gratin, these recipes will showcase the best of white asparagus’s creamy charm. Get ready to savor the taste of spring!