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This Steamed asparagus is so easy to make and tastes amazing. It is packed with flavor and takes just minutes to make.

Steamed asparagus on a plate with fresh limes
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If you are not a fan of asparagus it is because you ate it from a can or someone over cooked it. Trust me I’ve overcooked mine many times and it is packed with flavor (and nutrients) if you don’t over cook it.

That is the key to delicious asparagus. You don’t want mushy asparagus. The asparagus should be bright green and tender but not mushy.

Give this a try and see how delicious it is.  If you prefer roasted asparagus, try this easy roasted asparagus recipe.

Why This Recipe Works

Asparagus is a delicious side dish recipe and can be cooked in many different ways. Steaming this green vegetable results in a tender-crisp texture for a crowd pleasing side dish.

We also love to steam broccoli in the microwave and cauliflower. Steaming vegetables is easy and you only need simple ingredients to make it taste amazing.

Ingredients

Steamed Asparagus ingredients - asparagus stems, water, garlic salt, lime
  • Fresh Asparagus Stems
  • Water
  • Garlic Salt
  • Lime Juice Fresh

Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe and ingredients in the recipe card.

Variations Ideas

The seasoning can easily be changed to what you prefer. Here are some great additions or variations to change the flavor.

  • Lemon Zest
  • Lemon Juice
  • Black Pepper
  • Butter
  • Olive Oil

Step by Step Instructions

  • Step 1 – First, cut the bottom end of the asparagus stalks to remove the woody stem. Wash and dry with paper towels.
  • Step 2 – Next, place in your skillet. Pour ½ cup of water, just enough to cover the bottom of the skillet.
Placing the prepared asparagus in a skillet
  • Step 3 – Place the lid back on. Turn on to medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil.
  • Step 4 – Steam the asparagus spear for about 2-3 minutes, until the asparagus turns bright green in boiling water.
Cooked Asparagus in the skillet
  • Step 5 – Remove, the lid. If there is still water, continue to cook (it will boil off in a minute). Turn off heat.
  • Step 6 – Squeeze half a lime over the cook asparagus and season with garlic salt and parmesan cheese.
Topping the cooked asparagus with seasoning
  • Step 7 – Remove the asparagus with tong and serve immediately. Easy! Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. You can even add hollandaise sauce for flavor.

Recipe Tips

  • Bright Green – If the asparagus isn’t still bright green then you have overcooked it. Once it becomes bright green stop cooking.
  • Supples Needed – For this Garlic Steamed Asparagus recipe all you need is garlic salt, a fresh lime, some fresh asparagus, water and a skillet with a lid.
  • Cutting Asparagus – Before steaming the asparagus, make sure to cut the wash and cut the bottom of the asparagus off.
  • Adding Water – You want to add just enough water in the pan to cover the bottom. Make sure to not add to much as it could cause the asparagus be soggy.
  • Cover Skillet While Cooking – While steaming the asparagus cover the skillet. This helps to lock in the heat to quickly steam the asparagus.
Steamed asparagus in a skillet topped with fresh limes

Serving Suggestions

There are so many great meals that are quick and easy and go with this steamed asparagus. This easy side dish is so quick and easy and pairs nicely with many other simple recipe ideas.

Steamed asparagus in a skillet topped with fresh limes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to steam?

We steamed our asparagus directly in the bottom of the pan. But you can also steam in a steamer basket. It usually takes about 3 minutes to steam tender asparagus but cooking time will vary.

How to Store Leftovers

We think steamed asparagus is best served immediately. But if you do have leftovers, store in an airtight container at room temperature and place in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat

We usually reheat in the microwave, but you can also reheat on the stovetop in a large skillet.

More Easy Vegetable Recipes

We love hearing from you. If you make this recipe, please leave us a comment or a star review.

Steamed Asparagus

5 from 2 votes
This Garlic Lime Steamed Asparagus is the perfect side dish to any meal. From winter to summer, your family will love this easy asparagus recipe.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 1
Cuisine American
Course Side Dish
Calories 49

Ingredients

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Instructions

  • Cut the bottom end
  • Place in your skillet.
  • Pour ½ cup of water, just enough to cover the bottom of the skillet.
  • Place the lid back on.
  • Turn on to medium-high and bring to a boil.
  • Steam the asparagus for about 2-3 minutes, until the asparagus turns bright green.
  • Remove, the lid. If there is still water, continue to cook (it will boil off in a minute).
  • Turn off heat.
  • Squeeze half a lime over the asparagus and season with garlic salt.
  • Serve imediately.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 49kcal, Carbohydrates 10g, Protein 5g, Fat 1g, Saturated Fat 1g, Sodium 2336mg, Potassium 458mg, Fiber 5g, Sugar 5g, Vitamin A 1715IU, Vitamin C 17mg, Calcium 54mg, Iron 5mg

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About the Author

Hi, I’m Carrie. Welcome to Eating on a Dime!

I’m on a mission to help you cook delicious meals without busting your budget. Together we are going to cook real food… for real families!

5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

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Comments

  1. Nancy Byrne says:

    5 stars
    Omg!!! I love asparagus and this recipe is pure awesomeness …..cooked it on our smoker and it was like heaven!!!!!

  2. Carrie says:

    Yes, I have done that before.

  3. Anamaria says:

    Can I use lemon instead of the lime?

  4. Minnie@thelady8home says:

    This sounds exquisite!!! Amazing one.