Steaming Asparagus Perfection: Quick Microwave Method

Steamed asparagus is a delicious and nutritious side dish that can be prepared in just a few minutes with the help of a microwave. This cooking method is perfect for those who want a quick, easy, and mess-free way to enjoy their asparagus without compromising on taste and texture. With just a microwave-safe bowl, some water, and a few simple seasonings, you can have perfectly tender asparagus spears ready to be dressed however you like.

Trimming the asparagus

The first method is to slowly bend the asparagus spear close to the white, woody part. The asparagus will naturally break off at the point where the tender, edible part of the spear begins. This is a good way to ensure you are only removing the woody part of the spear while maximising the amount of edible asparagus.

The second method is to line up the asparagus spears and cut off the woody ends. This method is useful if you are preparing a large bunch of asparagus at once, as it saves time. Simply use a sharp knife to cut through the ends of the asparagus spears in one go.

Once you have trimmed the asparagus, give it a quick rinse in cold water to remove any dirt or grit. It is not necessary to dry the asparagus after rinsing, as the remaining water will help to create steam during the cooking process.

Seasoning the asparagus

Salt

A sprinkle of salt is a classic choice for seasoning asparagus. It enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetable and brings out its delicate flavour. You can use kosher salt or regular table salt, adjusting the amount to your taste preferences.

Pepper

Adding some ground black pepper to your asparagus introduces a subtle kick and warmth to the dish. It pairs well with the natural flavour of asparagus and gives it a little extra depth.

Olive Oil

Drizzling a small amount of olive oil over the asparagus before or after microwaving can add a rich, fruity flavour to the dish. Olive oil also has a lower smoke point than other oils, so it's perfect for quick cooking methods like microwaving.

Garlic Powder

For garlic lovers, a sprinkle of garlic powder can add a savoury punch to your asparagus. It provides a more subtle garlic flavour than fresh garlic, but it's convenient and easy to use.

Lemon Juice

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavour of asparagus. It adds a tangy, citrusy note that complements the vegetable's natural sweetness. Lemon juice is also known to enhance the absorption of iron from plant-based sources, making it a nutritious addition to your meal.

Butter

For a decadent touch, adding a pat of butter to your steamed asparagus introduces a rich, creamy element to the dish. Butter also helps to carry other seasonings, ensuring each bite is flavourful.

Other Seasoning Ideas

Asparagus is a versatile vegetable that pairs well with various seasonings. Here are some additional ideas:

• Parmesan cheese for a nutty, savoury flavour.
• Lemon zest for a bright, citrusy touch.
• Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Balsamic vinegar glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
• Hollandaise sauce, a classic pairing for asparagus.

Cooking time

The cooking time for steamed asparagus in the microwave depends on the thickness of the stalks and your desired texture.

For thin stalks (around the thickness of a pencil), steam for 3 minutes. For thicker stalks, steam for 4-5 minutes, and then in 1-minute intervals until the desired texture is reached. If you like your asparagus al dente, with a bit of a snap, cook for 4 minutes. For softer asparagus, microwave for 5 minutes and then heat for another minute at a time until it's done to your liking.

The cooking time also depends on the wattage of your microwave.

To check if your asparagus is done, pierce it with a fork. It should be tender but still crisp.

Removing from the microwave

Once the microwave beeps, indicating the end of the cooking time, carefully remove the asparagus from the microwave. Use tongs or oven mitts to protect your hands from the hot steam.

When removing the lid or plate, be cautious as a lot of steam will escape. If you have used damp paper towels, carefully unwrap the asparagus.

Check the asparagus is tender by piercing it with a fork. If it is not tender enough, place it back in the microwave and cook in 1-minute intervals until it reaches your desired tenderness.

Transfer the asparagus to a serving dish and add your desired seasoning or dressing.

Serving suggestions

Microwaved steamed asparagus is a versatile side dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:

• Dressed simply in butter or vinaigrette.
• As part of cold dishes like salads, terrines, or cold noodle bowls.
• Drizzled with melted butter and sprinkled with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• With a quick dressing of olive oil, white wine vinegar, a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
• Chopped and added to an asparagus salad or any other salad.
• Served with hollandaise sauce or Hollandaise sauce.
• As a side to rich meat-based dishes.
• Chopped and added cold to salads, such as arugula salad or avocado chicken salad.
• Wrapped in prosciutto.
• As a crudité.
• Added to pasta.

Frequently asked questions