When it comes to cooking for a family or group of friends on a busy weeknight, you need recipes that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Asparagus is one of those ingredients that fits the bill perfectly – it’s in season during spring and early summer, making it a great choice for a fresh dinner option. Plus, it pairs well with so many other ingredients, from rich cheeses to savory meats.
In this article, we’re sharing 20 mouthwatering asparagus dinner recipes that are perfect for a busy weeknight. From classic roasted asparagus dishes to creative pasta and pizza combinations, these recipes will give you inspiration for your next quick and delicious meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a main course that’s sure to impress, we’ve got you covered.
Garlic Butter Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and the nuttiness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic and butter until well combined.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the asparagus.
6. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the asparagus.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Asparagus and Mushroom Pasta
A classic combination of tender asparagus, earthy mushrooms, and al dente pasta in a rich and creamy sauce makes for a satisfying and comforting meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender. Add asparagus and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Grilled Asparagus with Shrimp
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the savory flavor of shrimp, all tied together with a zesty lemon garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick and impressive side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large asparagus spears
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the asparagus spears with olive oil and season with salt. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, toss shrimp with lemon-garlic sauce and cook on grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve shrimp on top of grilled asparagus and garnish with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Prosciutto Bundles with Balsamic Glaze
Asparagus and Prosciutto Bundles with Balsamic Glaze: A flavorful and visually appealing side dish that combines the sweetness of asparagus, the saltiness of prosciutto, and the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus, then sprinkle with garlic.
5. Wrap each asparagus spear with a piece of prosciutto, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until asparagus is tender and prosciutto is crispy.
7. Brush balsamic glaze over the bundles during the last minute of baking.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Asparagus and Chicken Skillet
A delicious and easy-to-make skillet dinner that combines the flavors of chicken, asparagus, garlic, and lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add asparagus, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until asparagus is tender.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and stir to combine.
5. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asparagus and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and visually stunning dish. Tender chicken breast is stuffed with a delicious mixture of asparagus, goat cheese, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 8 ounces crumbled goat cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Let cool.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked asparagus, goat cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the asparagus mixture.
5. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon-Dill Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of lemon and dill. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down (if they have skin).
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast asparagus in a separate pan with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and chopped dill.
7. After salmon has baked for 10 minutes, spoon the lemon-dill sauce over each fillet.
8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asparagus and Bacon Carbonara
A creamy and savory twist on the classic Italian dish, this Asparagus and Bacon Carbonara combines the tender freshness of asparagus with the smoky richness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the asparagus to the same skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Add the reserved pasta water and stir until the sauce is creamy.
7. Combine the cooked asparagus and bacon into the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well combined.
8. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Roasted Asparagus and Feta
This quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of roasted asparagus with the tanginess of crumbled feta, all tied together with a light vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups water or broth.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted asparagus, crumbled feta cheese, and lemon juice.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Asparagus and Gruyère Tart
Celebrate the arrival of asparagus season with this elegant tart, featuring the tender vegetable paired with creamy Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a spring evening or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 12 oz fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and asparagus; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Arrange cooked asparagus in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the asparagus.
6. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Fold edges of pastry up to create a crust; press gently to seal.
8. Place tart on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlicky Asparagus Stir-Fry with Beef
A flavorful and savory stir-fry that combines tender beef, crisp asparagus, and aromatic garlic for a quick and delicious meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add asparagus to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
5. Return beef strips to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Asparagus and Ricotta Pizza with Truffle Oil
Experience the flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant pizza recipe, featuring fresh asparagus, creamy ricotta cheese, and a hint of truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust (or homemade dough)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Truffle oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust to your desired thickness.
3. Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange on top of the ricotta cheese in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the asparagus.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the asparagus is tender.
7. Remove from oven and drizzle with truffle oil (if using).
8. Slice and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan-Crusted Asparagus with Poached Eggs
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the savory richness of Parmesan cheese, all wrapped up with a delicate poached egg. It’s a perfect brunch option for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. Spread in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the asparagus.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until asparagus is tender and cheese is golden brown.
6. While the asparagus cooks, bring water to a simmer. Crack in eggs and cook for 3-4 minutes or until whites are set and yolks are still runny.
7. Serve poached eggs on top of Parmesan-crusted asparagus.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asparagus and Sweet Potato Hash
This savory hash combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of asparagus, perfect for a quick and easy brunch or side dish. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying this delicious combination in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
4. Once both are cooked, combine sweet potatoes and asparagus in a large bowl. Squeeze lemon juice over the top (if using) and toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Asparagus Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of asparagus, all wrapped up in a comforting risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons each)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth and stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments, and waiting for it to be absorbed before adding more. This should take about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Stir in the lemon zest, juice, and asparagus. Cook until the asparagus is tender, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asparagus and Ham Stuffed Crepes
Elevate your brunch game with these flavorful crepes filled with tender asparagus, savory ham, and a hint of cream cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 crepe batter mix
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked ham
– 1/2 cup blanched asparagus, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook crepes according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix together cheddar cheese, ham, asparagus, and cream cheese.
3. Butter the center of each crepe with softened butter.
4. Place about 1/4 cup of the asparagus-ham mixture onto one half of the crepe.
5. Fold the crepe in half to enclose filling.
6. Cook filled crepes in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or sides.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (including crepe cooking time).
Grilled Asparagus and Halloumi Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the smoky flavor of grilled asparagus with the creamy richness of halloumi cheese, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 asparagus spears
– 200g halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush asparagus with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
3. Meanwhile, grill halloumi cheese for 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, until golden brown.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. To assemble the salad, place grilled asparagus on a platter or individual plates, top with grilled halloumi cheese, and drizzle with lemon vinaigrette.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Pea Pesto Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful spring-inspired pasta dish that combines the sweetness of asparagus and peas with the richness of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 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. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Add peas and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in pesto and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
4. Combine cooked pasta and pesto mixture. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water if needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Asparagus and Tomato Caprese Salad
Elevate your springtime meals with this vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss asparagus with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. 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 tomato slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until slightly charred.
4. Arrange roasted asparagus, grilled tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese on a platter or individual plates. Drizzle with any remaining juices from the skillet. Garnish with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asparagus and Sausage Sheet Pan Dinner
This sheet pan dinner is a quick and flavorful meal that combines the simplicity of roasted asparagus with the savory goodness of sausage. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the sausage slices on one half of the pan, leaving a small border around each piece.
4. Arrange the asparagus spears on the other half of the pan, slightly overlapping them.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using onion, scatter it over the sausage.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious asparagus dinner recipes to spice up your busy weeknights? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering asparagus recipes that are perfect for a quick and easy meal. From classic roasted asparagus with parmesan to more adventurous dishes like asparagus and prosciutto bundles with balsamic glaze, there’s something for everyone. Discover new ways to prepare this tasty vegetable and elevate your weeknight meals with these innovative and flavorful recipes.
