Ever find yourself with a can of asparagus and not sure what to do with it? You're not alone.
This canned asparagus side dish recipe is just what you've been looking for, and you can make it in only 6 minutes.
Not only does this dish bring lots of flavor to the party, but it's also incredibly easy to make. Using all the convenience of canned asparagus takes a lot of extra time and work out of your efforts in the kitchen.
Table of Contents
Recipe Video
Why This Recipe Works
This quick canned asparagus recipe works for a variety of reasons. To begin with, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. Using just 5 ingredients, you can create a healthy and delicious side dish that is also a very quick dish to whip up.
Less than 10 minutes is all it takes to create this quick canned asparagus recipe. Using canned asparagus makes the process much faster since you aren't worried about trimming and blanching like you would with fresh asparagus.
In addition to its convenience, this dish is highly versatile and can be served with a variety of different meals. Whether you are looking for a veggie side dish to go with your roasted chicken, grilled fish, or marinated tofu, this flavorful dish will always find a place at the dinner table.
Finally, another great thing about this quick and easy canned asparagus recipe is that it is very a cost-effective side dish to make that won't break the bank. With only 5 ingredients, most of those being staples that you likely already have in your kitchen, your grocery budget will stretch a little farther than usual.
Ingredients
Canned Asparagus:
Canned asparagus serves as a convenient and reliable ingredient, offering consistent texture and flavor. When making this easy canned asparagus recipe, Opt for cans with firm, bright green asparagus and minimal additives. While fresh asparagus can be used, it requires washing, trimming, and blanching prior to cooking, adding time and effort. To prepare canned asparagus, drain and rinse them to remove excess sodium, enhancing flavor and reducing saltiness.
Olive Oil:
When selecting olive oil, opt for extra virgin varieties for superior taste and nutritional value. Look for dark glass bottles to protect from light exposure, preserving the oil's freshness and antioxidants. While vegetable or canola oils can substituted, olive oil offers unique flavor profiles and health perks.
Garlic:
When choosing garlic, select bulbs with firm, unblemished cloves for optimal freshness and flavor. While garlic powder or pre-minced garlic can be convenient alternatives, fresh cloves offer superior taste and aroma. To prepare garlic for cooking, simply peel the cloves, mince, and allow minced garlic to rest for a few minutes before cooking to activate its potent compounds.
Salt & Pepper:
Since the canned asparagus is already very salty due to the brine that they are stored in, it's imperative that you taste your dish throughout the cooking process to adjust seasonings accordingly. Not thoroughly washing the asparagus and not tasting it as you cook it could result in overly salty asparagus.
Add Ons:
To elevate this sautéed canned asparagus meal idea, consider incorporating additional ingredients such as freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a savory bite, toasted almonds for crunch, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Alternatively, adding shallots or onions can provide a subtle sweetness, while fresh herbs like parsley or thyme impart aromatic complexity. Experiment with red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or balsamic vinegar for a tangy contrast. You can even add additional veggies to create some variety within the dish. Green beans, peas, carrots, corn, and even Brussels sprouts work with this creative canned asparagus recipe.
How to Make Canned Asparagus
Step One:
Begin by placing olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step Two:
Once the oil is hot and slick, add your garlic and saute it for 30 seconds to 1 minute until it's aromatic.
Step Three:
Add your asparagus spears to the skillet, laying them out evenly without overlapping, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Ensure you don't go overboard with the seasoning, as the canning process makes the canned asparagus already very salty. Draining and washing your asparagus beforehand will eliminate the excess sodium.
Step Four:
Continue to saute until the asparagus is soft and tender to the touch, stirring occasionally.
Step Five:
Serve with fresh lemon juice, and enjoy!
Tips
- Drain your canned asparagus well and rinse it under cold water to remove any excess salt or brine from the spears. This helps to improve the flavor of our final dish and reduce sodium content, making it a much healthier dish.
- Taste your sauteed canned asparagus as you go and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Due to the canning process, canned asparagus may already contain salt, so be mindful not to oversalt.
What to Serve With Canned Asparagus
This flavorful, quick, and easy canned asparagus pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal. For a balanced plate, consider serving it alongside protein-rich mains such as grilled chicken, baked fish, or seared steak. Its subtle flavor and tender texture also complement pasta dishes like creamy Alfredo or lemony pasta primavera.
FAQs
Can I use canned asparagus in place of fresh asparagus in recipes?
Yes, you can generally substitute canned asparagus for fresh in recipes. However, there are differences in texture and taste; canned asparagus tends to be softer and may have a slightly different flavor due to the canning process, while fresh asparagus may offer a crisper texture and a more vibrant flavor. Ensure you adjust the cooking times accordingly to prevent overcooking.
Can I use the liquid from canned asparagus for cooking or in recipes?
You can use the liquid from canned asparagus in cooking or recipes. The liquid, often referred to as "asparagus juice" or "asparagus broth," can add flavor to soups, stews, sauces, or risottos. It contains the essence of the asparagus flavor and can contribute to the overall taste of your dish. However, keep in mind that the liquid may be salty due to the canning process, so adjust the seasoning of your recipe accordingly.
How do I prevent canned asparagus from becoming too mushy when cooking?
To prevent canned asparagus from becoming mushy, handle it gently, avoid overcooking by opting for quick methods like sautéing, and add it towards the end of recipes. If it's too soft, briefly blanch it or drain and rinse it to remove excess salt.
How long can canned asparagus leftovers be stored?
Leftover canned asparagus can typically be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It is not recommended to freeze as this could result in texture and taste changes.
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Canned Asparagus
Ingredients
- 1 can asparagus drained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoons garlic minced
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh lemon juice optional. for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, add garlic and saute for 30 seconds to 1 minute until it's aromatic.
- Add your asparagus to the skillet, laying them out evenly, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Continue to saute until the asparagus is soft and tender, stirring occasionally.
- Serve with fresh lemon juice, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Video
Notes
- Drain the canned asparagus well and rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt or brine. This helps to improve the flavor and reduce sodium content.
- Taste your dish as you go and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Remember that canned asparagus may already contain salt, so be mindful not to oversalt.