Cooking asparagus is easy, and with a few easy techniques, you can bring out its fresh, delicious flavor. Asparagus is an abundant spring vegetable, available in New Zealand from around September through to Christmas time.
Asparagus can be roasted, grilled, steamed, sautéed, or blanched, and each method offers a different texture and taste profile. Make sure not to overcook it, otherwise it will lose flavour and go mushy. Here’s a quick guide on how to cook it perfectly every time.
How to prepare asparagus
Start by washing the asparagus thoroughly to remove any dirt or sand.
Snap or trim off the woody ends: hold the stalk in the middle and at the base and bend until it snaps naturally, discarding the tough end.
Ways to cook asparagus
In New Zealand, asparagus is a popular seasonal vegetable enjoyed in a variety of simple, fresh ways. Here are some common ways Kiwis enjoy asparagus:
Grilled or barbecued
Asparagus is often grilled or barbecued during the warmer months. Brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with salt and pepper, it’s a perfect addition to outdoor gatherings. Sometimes it’s wrapped in prosciutto or served with a squeeze of lemon.
- Preheat the grill or BBQ to medium-high.
- Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning frequently, until tender and lightly charred.
Asparagus rolls
A uniquely Kiwi snack, asparagus rolls are made by rolling a cooked asparagus spear in buttered white bread with a touch of mayonnaise. These are popular at gatherings and as easy appetisers.
In salads
Asparagus goes wonderful in many salads, especially with other seasonal produce like avocados, leafy greens and cherry tomatoes. You can blanch or grill fresh asparagus, then toss with olive oil, herbs and sometimes feta or goat cheese.
Roasted asparagus
Roasting is a popular way to enjoy asparagus in New Zealand, with spears seasoned and cooked until tender in the oven. Roasted asparagus goes great as a side to lamb, fish or chicken.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C.
- Place the asparagus on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelised.
Egg and asparagus dishes
Asparagus pairs perfectly with eggs, making it a favorite ingredient in frittatas, quiche, or simply served with poached or scrambled eggs for breakfast. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of hollandaise sauce adds extra flavor.
Pasta or risotto
Asparagus adds a touch of spring to pasta and risotto dishes. Kiwis often incorporate it into creamy pasta sauces, risotto with parmesan, or alongside other vegetables and herbs.
More Easy ways to cook asparagus
Steaming
- Place the asparagus in a steamer basket over simmering water.
- Cover and steam for 4-6 minutes, depending on thickness, until bright green and tender. Try this lemon butter asparagus recipe.
Sautéing
- Heat a bit of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the asparagus and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp and golden in spots.
Blanching
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add asparagus and cook for 2-4 minutes until bright green.
- Quickly transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking, preserving its color and crunch.