Are you looking for a quick and delicious way to enjoy asparagus, even when it’s not in season? Frozen asparagus can be just as tasty as fresh, and with these 18 easy recipes, you’ll never get bored. From creamy soups to savory stir-fries, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent on-the-go, these recipes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday brunch.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the many ways you can use frozen asparagus in your cooking. From classic pairings like garlic and parmesan to more adventurous combinations like lemon and goat cheese, we’ve got a recipe for every taste and dietary need. So grab some frozen asparagus and let’s get started!
Creamy Frozen Asparagus Soup
Revitalize your senses with this creamy and comforting soup, made possible by the convenience of frozen asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen asparagus spears
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine frozen asparagus, chicken broth, and butter. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Frozen Asparagus
Elevate your frozen asparagus game with this simple recipe that combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter. Perfect as a side dish or added to a meal, this recipe is quick, easy, and delicious!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen asparagus spears
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Spread the frozen asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the softened butter over the asparagus, making sure each spear is coated.
5. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the asparagus.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
8. Serve hot, with lemon wedges optional.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Cheese Quiche
This quiche is a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch option that showcases the flavors of frozen asparagus and melted cheese. With its flaky crust and creamy filling, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 2 cups frozen asparagus, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange the asparagus in an even layer on the bottom of the crust.
5. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the asparagus.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Frozen Asparagus with Parmesan
Elevate your frozen asparagus game by transforming it into a flavorful and aromatic side dish, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen asparagus
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Spread the frozen asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 14-18 minutes
Frozen Asparagus Stir-Fry with Chicken
In this recipe, we’re going to transform frozen asparagus into a tasty and healthy stir-fry dish by combining it with juicy chicken breast and a hint of soy sauce. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup frozen asparagus spears
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add frozen asparagus and stir-fry until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Frozen Asparagus Pasta
A bright and citrusy twist on classic pasta, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the pungency of garlic and a squeeze of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 pound frozen asparagus spears
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add frozen asparagus spears to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes or until tender.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the asparagus and stir to combine.
5. Toss cooked pasta with asparagus mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto
A warm and comforting risotto dish packed with the flavors of asparagus and mushrooms, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup frozen asparagus spears
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in frozen asparagus and cook until thawed.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Frozen Asparagus with Breadcrumbs
Elevate frozen asparagus with a crispy breadcrumb topping and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen asparagus, thawed
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Spread the thawed asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
5. Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using) in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the asparagus.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Bacon Frittata
A delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, tender asparagus, and creamy eggs.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup frozen asparagus, thawed and drained
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the asparagus and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour egg mixture over cooked asparagus in the skillet.
6. Top with crumbled bacon.
7. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are set.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Shrimp Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This recipe combines the sweetness of frozen asparagus with the succulence of shrimp, all cooked in a savory garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 bag (10 oz) frozen asparagus, thawed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Add the asparagus to the skillet and stir to combine with the shrimp and garlic butter sauce.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Potato Hash
This recipe is a perfect way to add some crunch and flavor to your meal. It’s easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen asparagus, thawed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the asparagus with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread out the asparagus in a single layer. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
4. While the asparagus is roasting, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
5. Once the asparagus is done, add it to the skillet with the potatoes. Stir to combine.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the hash and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Ham Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This easy-to-make dish combines the sweetness of asparagus with the savory flavor of ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package frozen asparagus, thawed
– 6 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1 cup crushed crackers (Ritz or similar)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine asparagus, ham, and cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk, melted butter, cream of mushroom soup, and black pepper.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with crushed crackers.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Tomato Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the earthy flavor of frozen asparagus, all tied together with a zesty vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen asparagus, thawed
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
2. Add the thawed asparagus and diced tomatoes to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Frozen Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart
This savory tart is perfect for a quick and elegant dinner party or a cozy evening at home. The combination of frozen asparagus, creamy goat cheese, and flaky pastry crust is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup frozen asparagus, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix asparagus and goat cheese. Spread mixture evenly over center of pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Fold edges of pastry up to create a crust, pressing gently to seal. Brush with beaten egg for golden brown finish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Lemon Butter Sauce
A refreshing twist on a classic asparagus recipe, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen asparagus spears
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the frozen asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle the softened butter over the asparagus, then sprinkle with minced garlic.
5. Squeeze lemon juice evenly over the asparagus.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Almond Stir-Fry
This recipe is a great way to add some crunch and flavor to your weeknight dinner routine. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a tasty and healthy meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen asparagus
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or sesame oil for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil and minced garlic; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the frozen asparagus and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in the sliced almonds and cook for an additional 30 seconds to toast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 6-7 minutes
Frozen Asparagus and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of frozen asparagus, all wrapped up in tender pasta shells. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup frozen asparagus, thawed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and asparagus. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta-asparagus mixture, placing them seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Frozen Asparagus and Herb Butter
This recipe is a delicious and effortless way to enjoy asparagus year-round. By combining frozen asparagus, butter, garlic, and herbs, you’ll create a tasty and elegant side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen asparagus spears
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Spread the frozen asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Dot the top of the asparagus with softened butter, making sure each spear is coated.
5. Sprinkle minced garlic and chopped parsley and chives evenly over the asparagus.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the butter is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the convenience of using frozen asparagus in these 18 easy recipes perfect for quick meals. From creamy soups to savory stir-fries, these dishes showcase the versatility of this nutritious vegetable. Try making a Creamy Frozen Asparagus Soup or Garlic Butter Frozen Asparagus for a comforting and flavorful meal. For a more substantial option, try Frozen Asparagus and Cheese Quiche or Roasted Frozen Asparagus with Parmesan. These recipes offer a range of flavors and textures to suit any taste or dietary preference.