Fresh asparagus is quick and easy to cook and makes each dish a little more special. Here are six simple ways to prepare asparagus, which will make you dishes incredible.
1. Steamed asparagus
Asparagus is prepared in a steamer (there are a number of steaming utensils and appliances on the market, or if you don't have one, you can always cook them in a water bath. Steaming is a good way to reduce the calories, since it requires little or no fat.
2. Boiled or blanched asparagus
Asparagus is cooked very quickly in boiling water, until it is completely or partially cooked. If you don't serve the asparagus right away, put it in ice water to stop the cooking process. It will also retain its bright green color. Some recipes require partial cooking or blanching, icing, then finishing off cooking later.
Place the trimmed asparagus in a pan, which is large enough to hold the asparagus and enough salted water to cover them by about 1/2 inch. Cover them and wait for them to boil. Squeeze the boiled asparagus and place them in a large bowl or ice water.
3. Microwave asparagus
Place the asparagus in the microwave with 2 tablespoons of water. Cover them and switch on the microwave for about 3 minutes. Stir and place them back in the microwave for another 2 to 3 minutes, until the asparagus is firm but tender. Strain and cool them.
4. Roasted asparagus
For this method, place the asparagus in one layer in a shallow dish and cook them in the oven. The high temperature caramelizes the natural sugars in the asparagus and deepens their taste. When baked, they may turn brown and not look as fresh as when stewed or boiled. Still, the improved aroma is worth it.
5. Pan-fried asparagus
Melt the butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Stir with the olive oil (olive oil is added to preserve their green color), salt and black pepper. Add garlic to the butter and asparagus and cook for 10 minutes, by turning the asparagus to ensure even cooking.
6. Grilled asparagus
The high heat quickly prepares the asparagus and gives it a smoky taste.
Check out our other asparagus recipes.
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