12 of Our Favorite Asparagus Recipes

One sure sign that spring has sprung is the abundance of fresh, vibrant asparagus in the produce aisle. Though available year-round, asparagus is at its peak in late March through early May. That’s good news for both your taste buds and your wallet, as this versatile veggie is typically most affordable then too—and we’ve got a dozen deliciously easy asparagus recipes to get you started. 

When looking for the best asparagus, look for tightly closed tips that are uniformly smooth and not frayed at the edges. The stalks should be firm and bright green or greenish-purple in color. While slimmer stalks are perfectly fine to eat, thicker asparagus will often bring the best texture and flavor. For maximum freshness and flavor, keep raw asparagus refrigerated inside a plastic bag and use it within three to five days. To prepare, take one stalk and bend it gently near the bottom. The tough, woody end should snap off easily. Pro tip: After removing all woody ends from the bunch, freeze the scraps to use in your next batch of chicken or vegetable stock. They’re tough to eat, but still bring a ton of flavor. 

Once you’ve picked and prepped the perfect bunch, spring into the season with these easy asparagus recipes that spotlight the flavor and versatility of the veg.  

Creamy Chicken with Asparagus

This one-pan, company-worthy meal heralds the arrival of spring with prep and cleanup that are weeknight-easy. Chicken breast and asparagus cook together in a velvety pan sauce made with fresh lemon and cream cheese. Serve over egg noodles or alongside your favorite grain for a satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes.  

Ham and Cheese Tart with Asparagus  

Two smart shortcut ingredients turn asparagus and leftover ham into a savory tart you can serve any time of day. Frozen puff pastry creates the flaky crust for a topping of roasted asparagus, ham, and Parmesan on top of a layer of spreadable garlic and herb cheese.

Pesto Steak, Asparagus, and Potato Skillet  

This recipe makes it possible to serve a mouthwatering, seasonally inspired steak dinner in just 15 minutes using a single pan. Store-bought pesto adds instant flavor to pan-seared slices of sirloin and asparagus served alongside microwave-ready fingerling potatoes. 

Pasta Primavera with Shaved Asparagus and Snap Peas  

Two peak season veggies give this primavera (which literally translates to “spring” in Italian) a vibrant color and bright, fresh flavor. Ribbons of fresh asparagus and sugar snap peas shine tossed with penne in a light, creamy sauce made with Parmesan and Greek yogurt. Plus, the thinly shaved asparagus may make asparagus skeptics a fan.  

Air Fried Asparagus Fries  

Burgers’ favorite sidekick gets a springtime makeover in this better-for-you take on French fries. A savory panko and Parmesan coating and five minutes in the air fryer turn asparagus spears into a crunchy finger food that also works as a standout party snack.   

Asparagus and Feta Quiche  

This picture-perfect, plant-powered quiche makes a delicious centerpiece for any brunch spread. Asparagus, feta, and fresh dill dress up an eggy filling over a buttery, gluten-free crust that’s delicious and served at any temperature.

Asparagus with Brown Butter, Capers, and Thyme  

Four ingredients and 15 minutes are all you need for this seasonal, goes-with-anything side dish. Nutty brown butter, capers, and fresh thyme add a pop of flavor to tender asparagus spears that cook in the microwave.   

Asparagus Pasta Salad   

This pasta salad preps in 10 minutes and is the perfect excuse to go on an impromptu spring picnic. Simply boil and toss curly cavatappi noodles with asparagus, ham, fresh dill, and store-bought vinaigrette. A sprinkle of grated hard-boiled eggs adds protein, flavor, and luscious texture to every bite.   

Asparagus and Goat Cheese Salad   

The iconic flavor pairing, asparagus and goat cheese, gets even more delicious in this no-fuss salad that’s ready to serve in 15 minutes. Ribbons of asparagus marinated in olive oil and white wine vinegar combine with crunchy pine nuts, goat cheese, and two other springtime stars, fresh mint and green onions.  

Asparagus Leek Soup  

Asparagus adds a new twist to this classic, comforting soup that’s perfect for spring nights when there’s still a faint chill in the air. Buttermilk adds a creamy tang to a spoon-hugging combo of peak-season leeks, potato, and asparagus finished with lemon and fresh chives.

Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus   

With just four ingredients and 10 minutes of prep, this crowd-pleasing snack for your next cocktail party or holiday get-together is a wrap. Thin slices of meaty prosciutto turn shatteringly crisp in the oven wrapped around tender asparagus spears finished with a pop of fresh lemon.  

Asparagus and Shiitake Stir Fry

This vegan-friendly stir fry is a light but satisfying meal (or hearty side) starring three peak season ingredients. Asparagus, shiitake mushrooms, and green onions get a boost of Asian-inspired flavor from hoisin, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.