Cooking white asparagus can be intimidating to many people because of its less popularity compared to regular asparagus. However, you don’t have to worry, with the right method and seasoning, you can turn it into a delicious dish. In this article, I’ll instruct you how to cook white asparagus perfectly in 4 different way, along with my personal thoughts on each method.
1. How To Cook White Asparagus in the Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound white asparagus, peeled and ends trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange the peeled and trimmed asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and toss to coat evenly. Next, season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the asparagus spears are tender and slightly golden.
Serve with a few lemon wedges for a refreshing citrus kick.
Roasting white asparagus is my go-to method when I want something easy and flavorful. The high heat enhances its natural sweetness while keeping the texture just right. Pair this with grilled chicken or fish, and it’s a foolproof dinner idea.
2. How To Cook White Asparagus on Stove
Ingredients
- 1 pound white asparagus, peeled and ends trimmed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Place the asparagus in the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly golden.
Add the lemon zest and juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Cooking asparagus on the stove makes it feel indulgent. The butter and garlic create a comforting aroma that fills the kitchen, while the lemon zest adds a pop of brightness. I love serving this alongside mashed potatoes and roast beef for a hearty meal.
3. How To Cook White Asparagus in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 pound white asparagus, peeled and ends trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh, ground black pepper
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Toss the asparagus with olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
Arrange the asparagus spears in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Serve hot and enjoy as a quick snack or side dish.
I’m a big fan of air frying white asparagus. It’s fast, hassle-free, and gives the spears a slight crispness that contrasts beautifully with their tender insides. This method is perfect for busy days when I want something nutritious and satisfying.
4. How To Cook White Asparagus on the Grill
Ingredients
- 2 bundles white asparagus, peeled and ends trimmed
- 1 cup crème fraîche
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons chili paste
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (use more if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (toasted)
- 1 large green onion (finely chopped)
Instructions
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Lightly brush the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt.
Grill the spears for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they develop light grill marks and are tender.
In a small bowl, mix crème fraîche, soy sauce, chili paste, white pepper, and garlic powder to create the sauce.
Drizzle the sauce over the grilled asparagus or serve it on the side as a dip. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions for garnish.
Grilling white asparagus is my favorite way to prepare it during summer barbecues. The smoky char from the grill pairs beautifully with the tangy, spicy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to elevate your outdoor dining experience.
White asparagus is a versatile ingredient that adapts beautifully to different cooking methods and flavor profiles. Personally, grilling is my top choice for its smoky flavor, but I also turn to oven-roasting for a quick and easy weekday fix. Whichever method you choose, don’t forget to peel the tough outer layer for the best results.
