Fresh Asparagus With Lemon Butter Sauce

Servings: 6 Difficulty: Intermediate
Bright, zesty lemon butter sauce elevates tender steamed asparagus into a classic American side dish.
Fresh Asparagus With Lemon Butter Sauce recipe image

Fresh Asparagus With Lemon Butter Sauce

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6 Calories: 240.0

Description

This elegant yet simple side dish showcases the natural sweetness of fresh asparagus paired with a vibrant lemon butter sauce. The butter provides a rich, velvety mouthfeel, while the lemon juice adds a sharp, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness. A hint of Tabasco sauce and fresh chopped parsley introduces subtle heat and herbal freshness, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Ideal for spring dinners, this recipe comes together quickly, making it a reliable choice for weeknight meals or special occasions. The asparagus remains crisp-tender, ensuring a delightful texture in every bite. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a complete, comforting meal that feels both home-style and sophisticated.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Rinse the asparagus spears under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit.
  2. Hold each asparagus spear at both ends and bend until it snaps naturally; discard the tough, woody lower ends.
  3. Place the trimmed asparagus in a steamer basket over boiling water.
  4. Cover and steam for 5 to 7 minutes for thin stalks, or 7 to 10 minutes for thicker stalks, until tender-crisp.
  5. Meanwhile, combine the butter, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and Tabasco sauce in a small saucepan.
  6. Heat the mixture over low heat until the butter is melted and the sauce is warm, stirring gently.
  7. Remove the asparagus from the steamer and drain briefly.
  8. Arrange the asparagus on a serving platter and drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce over the top just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6


Amount Per Serving
Calories 240.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 23.3g36%
Saturated Fat 14.5g73%
Cholesterol 61.0mg21%
Sodium 1405.5mg59%
Total Carbohydrate 7.5g3%
Dietary Fiber 3.6g15%
Sugars 3.5g
Protein 4.0g8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Do not overcook the asparagus, as it will lose its vibrant color, crisp texture, and nutrients.

Ensure the lemon butter sauce does not boil, as this can cause the butter to separate and the sauce to become grainy.

For best results, use fresh lemon juice instead of concentrate if available, adjusting to taste.

Leftover sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before using.

This recipe can be easily scaled up or down depending on the number of servings needed.

Keywords: asparagus, lemon butter, side dish, spring recipe, vegetarian, steamed asparagus, quick dinner, parsley, tabasco, butter sauce, easy recipe, classic american, healthy sides, grilled chicken side, fresh vegetables, low carb, gluten free, simple cooking, lemon zest, herb sauce
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