Keep this super quick asparagus recipe in your back pocket.

Asparagus should have a gentle crunch to them; they should not be mushy.

A little lemon zest helps brighten the natural flavor of the asparagus, and the Parm and olive oil?

Asparagus with shredded Parmesan in a bowl with a spoon

Alison Bickel

Well, of course, they make everything taste good.

How To Choose the Best Asparagus

The best asparagus is fresh.

The stalks should be firm to the touch.

Asparagus with shredded Parmesan in a bowl with a spoon

Alison Bickel

Pass by any stalks that are limp or dry with cracked ends.

The tips of the asparagus should be tightly closed and the stalks should be uniform for even cooking.

Tips for Cleaning Asparagus

Its always important to clean fresh produce before preparing it.

A pot with asparagus making an asparagus recipe.

Alison Bickel

Then it’s possible for you to prepare asparagus for cooking.

Remove the tough end from the rest of the stalk by either cutting or snapping it off.

The asparagus is now ready for your recipe.

A metal bowl with asparagus pieces tossed with Parmesan

Alison Bickel

What Does Blanching Mean?

Blanching is a cooking technique that partially cooks food.

Its commonly used with vegetables like asparagus.

Blanching makes the outside of a vegetable tender while the inside remains fairly crisp.

It also helps keep color bright.

Bring to a boil.

Prepare the asparagus while the water is heating.

Break off any tough, white bottoms and discard.

Cut the spears into 1- to 2-inch sections, slicing the asparagus at a slight diagonal.

Add the asparagus to the boiling water and lower the heat slightly to maintain a simmer.

Parboil the asparagus for exactly 2 minutes.

Drain the hot water.

Toss the asparagus with olive oil, parmesan, and lemon zest while it’s still hot.

Salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm or room temperature.

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