Asparagus can look a little intimidating if you don't know what to do with it, but it's actually a totally non-threatening and delicious spring vegetable that you should stock up on. It’s a surprisingly versatile ingredient that lends itself well to many dishes. It’s best bought when in season, from February to June. Hazelview has some tasty ideas for how to use this crisp veg.
Orzo Pasta with Grilled Asparagus
Try two new-to-you ingredients in one recipe! Have you ever tried orzo? It's a delicious rice shaped pasta that pairs brilliantly with asparagus. Boil your pasta until al dente, drain, and leave on low heat. Add olive oil and one chopped onion, cook for 2 minutes, add 2-3 cloves of garlic and continue to cook for 2 minutes stirring occasionally. Drop in halved snap peas and asparagus cut into 1” pieces, and cook until soft but crisp. Remove from heat, add lemon juice, zest, mint, and ¼ cup of feta cheese. Stir well, season with salt and pepper, and top with another ¼ cup cheese. Get the full recipe here.
Asparagus Salad with Sherry Vinaigrette and Poached Egg
This delicious salad is perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Best of all it can be made super quickly! Whisk together 1 tbsp grainy mustard, 1 tbsp sherry vinegar, 4 tbsp grapeseed oil, salt and pepper until smooth. Blanch asparagus in boiling water, then toss in salt, curry powder, and olive oil, and grill (or pan sear) until lightly charred. Next it's time to perfectly poach an egg -- boil water, stir vigorously, and crack in the egg. Cook for 3 minutes, remove, and place carefully in a bowl of ice water. Remove, and trim off any white edges. Plate 6 or more asparagus spears, drizzle with vinaigrette, top with the poached egg, and fresh parmesan reggiano cheese. Get the recipe here.
Asparagus and Panko Crusted Salmon
Asparagus and salmon are an elegant and classic pairing. If you want to impress a date, make this Asparagus and Panko Crusted Salmon recipe! Blanch asparagus then place in a blender with garlic, dill, salt and pepper, a touch of cream, and puree. Lightly season salmon filets with salt and pepper, then coat top and bottom with asparagus puree. Dab the filet in panko breadcrumbs until coated (top and bottom). Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes, until edges are white and the middle is slightly pink. Plate over a smear of puree with potato or salad side. Get the recipe.
Oven roasted Asparagus with Cheese Sauce
This one’s an easy and healthy game-day classic. Trim asparagus stalks and toss in olive oil, sea salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. Heat oven to 350F, place asparagus on a baking tray, and cook until lightly browned. Meanwhile, make a cheese sauce by whisking cream or milk and shredded cheese together in a small pot over medium heat until soft. Plate asparagus, drizzle with the cheese sauce, and sprinkle a pinch of chili spice or cayenne over top.
Asparagus and Prosciutto
Looking for a great spring appetizer? Asparagus wrapped in prosciutto with apple slices and boursin is a killer offering. Blanch asparagus for 1-2 minutes.While blanching, slice aged cheddar and green apples as thinly as possible (i.e. use a mandoline). Once cooked, remove the asparagus, dry and cut into 2” pieces. Lay out prosciutto slices on a cutting board, spread a layer of boursin, and lay apple slices on top. Add asparagus pieces near one end, and roll until covered. Place onto a baking tray, and roast at 375 F until cheese is melted and/or the prosciutto is starting to crisp up. Get the recipe here.
Hazelview hopes that these recipes inspire you to take advantage of asparagus season. For more information about Hazelview Properties in your city, please visit our website.