Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter

When I think of fresh, vibrant flavors, Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter instantly comes to mind. One sunny afternoon, I was rummaging through my fridge, trying to come up with a quick yet elegant side dish for dinner. I stumbled upon a bunch of fresh asparagus and some almonds. That’s when inspiration struck! I decided to pair the tender asparagus with a rich almond butter sauce. The result was phenomenal! The creamy, nutty flavor melted perfectly with the crisp-tender asparagus, creating a dish that felt both indulgent and wholesome. Every bite brought back memories of spring picnics and family gatherings where vibrant greens took center stage. This recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and the joy of cooking at home. So, whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter is bound to shine on your table.

Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter Ingredients

When it comes to the ingredients for Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter, simplicity is key. Each component harmonizes beautifully, creating a dish that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing. The star of the show is undoubtedly the asparagus, which provides that fresh crunch. The rich and creamy almond butter complements it perfectly, adding depth to the flavor profile.

• 2 pounds thin asparagus, tough ends trimmed off
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, divided
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped shallots
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

These ingredients come together to create a delightful dish bursting with flavor. The asparagus serves as a refreshing base, while the butter and almonds introduce a creamy richness. The shallots and garlic add aromatic depth, and the lemon juice and zest provide a bright finish.

Step by Step Instructions for Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter

Cooking Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter is a straightforward process, and I can assure you it’s worth every moment. Let’s jump into the steps!

1. Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. While it heats up, take your asparagus and trim the tough ends. You want them to be tender and ready to absorb all the delicious flavors.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the asparagus to the pot. Steam the asparagus for about four to five minutes or until they are crisp-tender. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a vibrant green and are easily pierced with a fork.
3. While the asparagus is steaming, grab a heavy large skillet and melt 1 tablespoon of the butter over low heat. It’s important to keep the heat low so that the butter doesn’t burn.
4. Add the finely chopped shallots and garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together for about five minutes, stirring occasionally until they become tender and fragrant.
5. Next, add the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, along with the parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Increase the heat to medium and stir until the butter melts and everything is well combined.
6. Once the butter mixture is bubbling and fragrant, add the sliced almonds. Cook for an additional three minutes, stirring occasionally, until the almonds are toasted and the butter begins to brown slightly.
7. At this point, your asparagus should be done steaming. Carefully remove them from the pot and add them to the skillet with the almond butter sauce.
8. Gently spoon the sauce over the asparagus, ensuring they are well coated. You want to give them a delicious glaze of that rich buttery goodness.
9. Finally, season to taste with salt and pepper. Feel free to adjust as per your preferences, and remember to taste along the way!
10. Serve your Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter warm, garnished with a few extra almonds if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every bite!

Change It Up

There’s always room to customize your Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter experience. Here are some ideas to help you make it your own:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently to avoid overcooking the asparagus.
• Freezing: While I recommend enjoying this dish fresh, you can freeze the cooked asparagus. Just blanch them first and then cool before freezing in a sealed bag.
• Pairing: This recipe goes great with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside a hearty grain dish for a complete meal.
• Variations: Try adding different nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for a unique flavor profile. You can also sprinkle some feta cheese on top for an extra creamy touch.
• Make it spicy: If you like a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce for a spicy twist.

How to Enjoy Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter

There are countless ways to savor your Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• As a side dish: Pair this dish with grilled chicken for a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
• Brunch option: This asparagus dish makes for a fantastic brunch addition, complementing egg dishes beautifully.
• Picnic favorite: Pack it for a picnic along with some crusty bread and cheeses for a refreshing outdoor meal.
• Seasonal gatherings: Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, it adds a light touch to any buffet.
• Meal prep: Use this as part of your weekly meal prep. It’s quick, easy, and makes for a healthy addition to lunches throughout the week.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter is a true testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. It brings vibrant flavors and a satisfying crunch to any table, making it a must-try for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a go; it’s not just a meal, it’s an experience. You’ll be surprised at how a few humble ingredients can come together to create such a delightful dish. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!

Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter

Craving something fresh and flavorful? Try this Steamed Asparagus with Almond Butter. It's a delightful blend of tender asparagus and creamy almond butter, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. Simple to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, this is a recipe you’ll want to make tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 220

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds Asparagus thin, tough ends trimmed off
• 6 tablespoons Salted Butter divided
• 3 tablespoons Shallots finely chopped
• 1 large Garlic clove, minced
• 3 tablespoons Fresh Parsley chopped
• 2 teaspoons Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
• 2 teaspoons Lemon Zest finely grated
• 1/2 cup Sliced Almonds

Equipment

• Grater
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Steam the asparagus until crisp-tender.
2. Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter in a heavy large skillet over low heat. Add the shallots and garlic and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter, parsley, lemon juice and lemon zest to the shallot mixture and heat over medium to melt the butter.
4. Add the almonds and cook until the butter browns, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes. Add the steamed asparagus and spoon the sauce over the asparagus until heated through. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently to avoid overcooking the asparagus.
• Freezing: While I recommend enjoying this dish fresh, you can freeze the cooked asparagus. Just blanch them first and then cool before freezing in a sealed bag.
• Pairing: This recipe goes great with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside a hearty grain dish for a complete meal.
• Variations: Try adding different nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for a unique flavor profile. You can also sprinkle some feta cheese on top for an extra creamy touch.
• Make it spicy: If you like a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce for a spicy twist.

Previous PostMashed Potatoes with Sour Cream

Next Post Piña Colada Smoothie

Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.