Steamed Asparagus

Steamed asparagus is our go-to method for cooking up perfectly tender spears in a snap!

Why this recipe works

A good ole steamed asparagus recipe comes in handy when you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish to make without heating up the oven or grill. And while we love grilled and roasted asparagus, steaming them helps preserve their hearty nutrients the best. Simply season, boil the water, and give the spears a hot steam bath until they’re vibrant and tender. That’s really all there is to it.

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

ASPARAGUS – The easiest way to trim the woody ends of asparagus off is to hold it with both hands. Position one hand in the center of the stalk, and the other at the woody end. Bend the stalk until it snaps. You can do this with all your asparagus spears or simply use a knife to cut the rest using the first one you snapped as a reference for where to slice.

SEASONING – Garlic salt, black pepper, and onion powder add the right amount of flavor without overpowering the spears. You can season the asparagus however you want! Sometimes we like to add a dash of Cajun seasoning or use all purpose seasoning instead of measuring out a few different spices.

How to Make Steamed Asparagus

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic salt, black pepper, and onion powder.
2. Trim off woody ends from asparagus spears. Place asparagus into a large mixing bowl or shallow dish. Add olive oil mixture and toss to coat the spears.
3. Add enough water to the bottom of the steam pot to come an inch or so up the sides. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Place seasoned asparagus into the top basket of the steam pot.
5. Put basket in place over the boiling water and cover with lid.
6. Cook for 5-8 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Store any leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

You can reheat cooked asparagus in the microwave, oven, air fryer, or in a skillet. Asparagus tend to get mushy when stored in the refrigerator. To help revive them I like to reheat in a 350F oven or pop them in the air fryer using the reheat function. You can also toss them in a skillet with a little olive oil to help them crisp back up. To reheat in the microwave, warm them in 15-second intervals until heated through. However, this method isn’t always the best for reviving your leftover asparagus.

Serving Suggestions

Serve steamed asparagus with anything from beef, pork, fish, poultry, and vegetarian based main courses. It pairs well with just about everything! Optionally garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

More Asparagus Recipes

• Grilled Asparagus
• Sauteed Asparagus
• Air Fryer Asparagus
• Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
• Lemon Asparagus
• Instant Pot Asparagus

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