The Best Ways to Cook Spring Asparagus (That Aren’t Just Roasting)

When spring arrives, so does one of the season’s most iconic vegetables: asparagus. Whether you’re planning a menu refresh or just craving something green and fresh, asparagus is your go-to for vibrant dishes packed with nutrition and flavor. From brunch to dinner sides, here are five standout recipes that celebrate spring asparagus at its best.

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1. Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus

Perfect as a side dish or salad topper

This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of asparagus with a burst of citrus and the depth of roasted garlic.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh asparagus

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:
Trim asparagus ends. Toss with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Roast at 400°F for 12–15 minutes until tender-crisp.

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2. Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart

Elegant and easy for brunch or appetizers

A puff pastry base, creamy goat cheese, and tender asparagus tips make this dish a spring showstopper.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)

• ½ cup goat cheese

• 1 egg (for wash)

• ½ lb asparagus, trimmed

• 1 tsp thyme

Instructions:
Roll out pastry, spread with goat cheese, and arrange asparagus on top. Sprinkle thyme and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.

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3. Asparagus and Lemon Risotto

Creamy, comforting, and packed with brightness

This classic Italian dish gets a spring refresh with asparagus and lemon zest stirred in at the end.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice

• ½ cup dry white wine

• 4 cups warm vegetable broth

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 cup asparagus, chopped

• 1 tbsp lemon zest

Instructions:
Sauté rice in olive oil, deglaze with wine, then slowly add broth while stirring. Add asparagus during last 5 minutes and finish with Parmesan and zest.

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4. Shaved Asparagus Salad with Parmesan and Almonds

Raw, crunchy, and refreshingly light

A no-cook option that highlights the crisp texture of raw asparagus ribbons.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch asparagus, shaved

• ¼ cup shaved Parmesan

• ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds

• 2 tbsp lemon vinaigrette

Instructions:
Use a vegetable peeler to shave asparagus into ribbons. Toss with Parmesan, almonds, and vinaigrette.

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5. Creamy Asparagus Soup (Dairy-Free Option)

Smooth, springy, and ideal for meal prep

This silky soup is great served warm or chilled, making it versatile for restaurants and home kitchens alike.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb asparagus, chopped

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic

• 3 cups vegetable broth

• ½ cup coconut milk or cream

Instructions:
Sauté onion and garlic, add asparagus and broth, simmer until soft. Blend until smooth, stir in coconut milk, and season to taste.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you're serving customers or cooking at home, spring asparagus brings versatility, nutrition, and color to every plate. Try these recipes as-is or adapt them to your own seasonal menu.