Lemon Butter Asparagus Delight
Delight in the bright and zesty flavors of this Lemon Butter Asparagus recipe, perfect for enhancing your meal with a touch of elegance. Fresh baby asparagus is perfectly steamed to maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture, then tossed in a rich lemon-infused butter sauce. This dish not only makes for a stunning side but also adds a delightful burst of citrus to your dining experience. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this vibrant vegetable dish is sure to impress your guests and family alike.
4
Servings
52.5
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh baby asparagus
1/2 lb (washed and trimmed)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (for seasoning water)
Unsalted butter
2 tablespoons (cubed)
Lemon zest
1 teaspoon (freshly grated)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
Instructions
1
Begin by washing the baby asparagus under cold water and trimming the ends of the stems by approximately 2 inches to remove the tough parts.
2
In a large skillet, fill with enough water to create a 1/2-inch layer, and bring it to a rapid boil. Add the salt to the boiling water to season it.
3
Carefully place the asparagus into the boiling water and steam for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn bright green and are just tender but still crisp.
4
Once cooked, promptly drain the asparagus and transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water to shock them, which will preserve their vibrant color and crisp texture. After a few minutes, drain again and set aside.
5
Return the skillet to the heat and add the cubed unsalted butter, allowing it to melt over medium-low heat. Once melted, stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and the lemon juice, allowing the mixture to combine and warm up.
6
Finally, add the drained asparagus to the skillet, gently tossing them in the lemon butter sauce to coat evenly. Heat for an additional minute while tossing, then serve immediately while hot.
Nutrition Information
4g
Fat
2.25g
Carbs
0.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon Butter Asparagus Delight?
It is a bright and zesty side dish featuring fresh baby asparagus steamed to perfection and tossed in a rich lemon-infused butter sauce.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Lemon Butter Asparagus Delight is naturally gluten-free.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 52.5 calories.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The ingredients include 1/2 lb fresh baby asparagus, salt, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
How should I prepare the asparagus before cooking?
Wash the asparagus under cold water and trim approximately 2 inches off the stem ends to remove the tough, woody parts.
Why is it important to shock the asparagus in ice water?
Shocking the asparagus in ice water stops the cooking process immediately, which helps preserve its vibrant green color and crisp texture.
How long should the asparagus be steamed?
Steam the asparagus in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
Can I use regular asparagus instead of baby asparagus?
Yes, you can use regular asparagus, but you may need to steam them for an extra minute or two depending on their thickness.
What type of butter is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for unsalted butter, cubed, to allow for better control of the saltiness in the sauce.
How much fat is in one serving of this dish?
There are 4 grams of fat per serving.
Does this recipe contain any protein?
Yes, each serving provides 0.75 grams of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 2.25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is freshly squeezed lemon juice necessary?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best zesty and bright flavor profile.
What is the purpose of adding lemon zest?
Lemon zest adds an aromatic citrus intensity that complements the butter and asparagus.
What equipment do I need to make this?
You will need a large skillet for steaming and sautéing, and a bowl for the ice water bath.
How much salt should be added to the water?
Use 1/4 teaspoon of salt to season the boiling water.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Absolutely, it is a quick recipe that takes very little time to prepare and cook.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the unsalted butter with a high-quality vegan butter or margarine.
What are the ideal occasions for serving this dish?
It is perfect for elegant dinner parties, festive gatherings, or as a healthy seasonal side dish for family meals.
How do I know when the asparagus is finished steaming?
It should be vibrant green and easily pierced with a fork but still have a slight snap.
Can I store leftovers of this recipe?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
What is the best way to reheat the asparagus?
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a tiny bit of butter or water to prevent them from drying out or overcooking.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
While not in the original recipe, minced garlic can be added to the melting butter for extra flavor.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, there is no sugar added to this recipe.
What does 'tender-crisp' mean?
It describes vegetables that are cooked enough to be bitten through easily but still retain a firm, crunchy texture.
How much water should I use in the skillet?
Fill the skillet with enough water to create a 1/2-inch layer for steaming.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While you can, fresh lemon juice is preferred for its superior flavor and acidity.
Is this recipe high in sodium?
No, the recipe uses only a small amount of salt for seasoning the water and uses unsalted butter.
When is the best time to serve this dish?
Serve it immediately while hot, right after tossing the asparagus in the lemon butter sauce.