Asparagus with Brown Butter Recipe
Overview
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet flavorful recipe featuring brown butter sauce. The nutty aroma and rich taste of browned butter perfectly complement tender asparagus spears, making it a delightful addition to any meal. This recipe not only enhances the natural flavors of asparagus but also provides a quick and easy way to prepare a gourmet side dish that will impress your guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: 150.2 kcal
- Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5 based on 1 review)
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 bunches fresh asparagus
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Nutritional Information per Serving
- Calories: 150.2 kcal
- Fat: 11.8g
- Saturated Fat: 7.4g
- Cholesterol: 30.5mg
- Sodium: 86.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 9.8g
- Fiber: 4.8g
- Sugar: 4.6g
- Protein: 5.2g
Recipe Keywords
Vegetable, European, Low Protein, Less than 15 Minutes, Stove Top, Easy
Instructions
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Prepare the Asparagus:
- Wash the fresh asparagus thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Trim the tough ends of the asparagus spears. You can do this by gently bending each spear near the base until it snaps naturally.
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Steam the Asparagus:
- Steam the prepared asparagus spears until they are tender yet still crisp. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the spears.
- Once steamed, drain the asparagus well and set aside.
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Make the Brown Butter Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Swirl the pan occasionally to ensure even melting.
- Continue cooking the butter until it turns a light golden brown color. This process brings out a nutty aroma and deepens the flavor of the butter.
- Be cautious not to let the butter burn; adjust the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer.
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Add Lemon Juice:
- Once the butter has turned golden brown, carefully add the lemon juice to the saucepan.
- The lemon juice will sizzle upon contact with the hot butter, so be prepared for a brief increase in steam.
- Stir the mixture gently to combine the flavors. The acidity of the lemon juice will balance the richness of the browned butter.
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Combine with Asparagus:
- Arrange the steamed asparagus spears on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Pour the brown butter sauce over the asparagus, ensuring each spear is generously coated with the flavorful sauce.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the asparagus as a garnish. The parsley adds a vibrant color and herbaceous freshness to the dish.
- Serve the asparagus with brown butter immediately while still warm. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
Tips for Success
- Choosing Asparagus: Look for bright green asparagus spears with firm stalks and closed tips. Thicker spears will take slightly longer to steam.
- Browning Butter: Take care not to rush the process of browning the butter. A slow, steady heat ensures a perfect golden color without burning.
- Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or chives for added flavor. You can also sprinkle toasted almonds or breadcrumbs over the asparagus for a crunchy texture.
Conclusion
This asparagus with brown butter recipe is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can transform a vegetable into a gourmet delight. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your weekday meals, this dish offers elegance and flavor in every bite. Enjoy the nutty richness of browned butter paired with the freshness of asparagus, all in under 15 minutes of preparation time. It’s a perfect addition to any culinary repertoire, guaranteed to impress and satisfy.
