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Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spring Asparagus

creamy garlic parmesan spring asparagus - featured image

A quick and easy creamy garlic Parmesan asparagus recipe that delivers tender yet crisp spears coated in a luscious, velvety sauce. Perfect for spring and crowd-pleasing at any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh spring asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 large garlic cloves, finely minced
  • ½ cup heavy cream (120 ml)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound of fresh spring asparagus under cold water. Snap or trim off the tough woody ends (about 1-2 inches). Pat dry with a clean towel.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic. Cook gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add the trimmed asparagus spears to the pan. Toss to coat in the garlic butter. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until asparagus is tender but still crisp. Add a splash of water or broth if the pan looks dry.
  4. Reduce heat to low and pour in ½ cup heavy cream. Stir to combine and let it warm for about 2 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
  5. Stir in ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens. Add lemon zest, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Remove from heat and toss gently to coat asparagus evenly. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

If sauce is too thick, thin with a splash of milk or broth. If too thin, simmer longer while stirring. Avoid burning garlic by cooking gently. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated. Snap asparagus ends instead of cutting to avoid tough parts. Reheat leftovers gently with milk or broth; avoid microwaving to prevent drying and sauce separation.

Nutrition

Keywords: asparagus, creamy asparagus, garlic Parmesan asparagus, spring asparagus recipe, easy side dish, low-carb asparagus, gluten-free asparagus