Sweet Maple-Mustard Glazed Asparagus
Elevate your vegetable side dish with this Sweet Maple-Mustard Glazed Asparagus recipe. Featuring tender, crisp asparagus spears adorned with a delightful sauce made from rich maple syrup and zesty Dijon mustard, this dish strikes a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Ideal for spring gatherings or as a complement to your favorite proteins, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Asparagus
2 lbs (Trimmed, tough ends snapped off.)
Maple syrup
2 tablespoons (Real or maple-flavored syrup.)
Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons (No preparation needed.)
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (Or vegetable oil.)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the asparagus: snap off the tough ends of each spear, discarding the ends.
2
In a large 12-inch skillet or a 4-quart Dutch oven, bring 1 inch of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
3
Once boiling, carefully add the asparagus and cover the skillet.
4
Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the asparagus is bright green and crisp-tender, making sure not to overcook. Once done, drain the asparagus and set aside.
5
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until well combined.
6
Drizzle the sweet maple-mustard sauce over the cooked asparagus, ensuring even coverage.
7
Serve immediately, garnished if desired, and enjoy this delightful dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How many servings does the Sweet Maple-Mustard Glazed Asparagus recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients needed for this dish?
The ingredients include 2 lbs of trimmed asparagus, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
How should I prepare the asparagus spears before cooking?
You should snap off the tough, woody ends of each asparagus spear and discard them before starting the cooking process.
What is the recommended cooking time for the asparagus?
Cook the asparagus for 4 to 5 minutes in boiling water until it is bright green and crisp-tender.
How do I make the maple-mustard glaze?
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until the mixture is well combined.
Can I use maple-flavored syrup if I do not have real maple syrup?
Yes, you can use either real maple syrup or maple-flavored syrup for this recipe.
What is the best way to cook the asparagus to keep it from getting mushy?
To keep it crisp-tender, cover the skillet while boiling and ensure you do not exceed the 5-minute cooking mark.
Is this asparagus recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, this recipe is gluten-free.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I substitute olive oil with another oil?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil as a substitute for olive oil.
What size skillet is recommended for this recipe?
A large 12-inch skillet or a 4-quart Dutch oven is ideal for cooking the asparagus.
Should I serve this dish hot or cold?
This dish is best served immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
How much water do I need to boil the asparagus?
You only need to bring 1 inch of water to a boil in your skillet or pot.
What does 'crisp-tender' mean when referring to asparagus?
Crisp-tender means the asparagus is cooked through but still retains a firm bite and bright color, rather than being soft or mushy.
Can I garnish this dish?
Yes, you can garnish the asparagus as desired before serving to enhance its presentation.
What flavor profile can I expect from the glaze?
The glaze offers a perfect balance of sweetness from the maple syrup and zestiness from the Dijon mustard.
Is this recipe good for spring seasonal cooking?
Absolutely, it is ideal for spring gatherings when asparagus is in its peak season.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
While the recipe calls for maple syrup, honey could work as a sweet alternative, though it will slightly change the flavor profile.
What type of mustard is specified in the ingredients?
The recipe specifically calls for Dijon mustard.
How do I ensure the glaze is evenly distributed?
Drizzle the sauce over the cooked and drained asparagus and toss gently to ensure even coverage.
Can this be served as a side dish for protein?
Yes, it is designed to be a complement to your favorite proteins like chicken, fish, or beef.
What if I have thick asparagus spears instead of thin ones?
Thicker spears may require the full 5 minutes of cooking time, while very thin spears may be done in closer to 3 or 4 minutes.
Do I need to peel the asparagus?
No, peeling is not necessary; simply snapping off the tough ends is sufficient preparation.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can whisk the glaze ingredients together in advance and store them at room temperature until the asparagus is ready.
Is there a specific way to drain the asparagus?
You can use a colander or carefully use the lid of the skillet to drain the hot water after cooking.
Can I add salt and pepper to this recipe?
While the mustard and syrup provide plenty of flavor, you can add a pinch of salt or black pepper to taste if desired.
Is this a fast recipe to make?
Yes, with only 4-5 minutes of cooking time and minimal prep, it is a very quick and easy side dish.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients, but you may need to cook the asparagus in batches or use a larger pot.
What should I look for when buying fresh asparagus?
Look for firm, straight stalks with tight, closed tips and avoid any that look wilted or slimy.
Does the recipe require any special kitchen tools?
No special tools are needed other than a skillet or Dutch oven and a small whisk.