Asparagus is a delicious and healthy vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. While many people prefer to grill or roast asparagus, cooking it in the microwave is a quick and easy option that can save time and energy. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook asparagus in the microwave, from selecting the right asparagus to serving it up with your favorite dishes.
Choosing the right asparagus
When it comes to cooking asparagus in the microwave, it’s important to select the right asparagus. Look for asparagus spears that are firm, straight, and bright green in color. The tips should be tightly closed and the bottoms should be smooth and not dried out.
Before you cook asparagus in the microwave, it’s important to prepare it properly. Start by trimming off the tough ends of the asparagus spears. Hold each spear at both ends and bend it until it snaps. The point where it snaps is where the tough, woody end starts, so use that as a guide for where to cut.
After you’ve trimmed the asparagus, wash it thoroughly in cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, pat it dry with a clean towel.
Preparing asparagus for cooking
Now that you’ve chosen and prepared your asparagus, it’s time to get it ready for cooking in the microwave. To make sure the asparagus cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out, it’s important to arrange it in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate or dish.
If you have thicker asparagus spears, you may want to use a vegetable peeler to shave off the tough outer layer. This will help the asparagus cook more evenly and tenderize faster in the microwave.
Cooking asparagus in the microwave
When it comes to cooking asparagus in the microwave, timing is everything. Start by drizzling a little bit of olive oil or melted butter over the asparagus and season it with salt and pepper. Cover the plate or dish with a microwave-safe cover or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent to allow steam to escape.
Microwave the asparagus on high for 2-4 minutes, depending on the power of your microwave and the thickness of the asparagus spears. Check the asparagus every minute or so to make sure it’s not overcooking. You want the asparagus to be tender but still slightly crisp.
Tip: If you’re cooking a large batch of asparagus, you may need to cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding the plate and uneven cooking.
Checking for doneness
When the cooking time is up, remove the plate or dish from the microwave and carefully remove the cover. To check if the asparagus is done, use a fork to gently pierce the thickest part of one of the spears. If it goes in easily and the asparagus is tender but still slightly crisp, it’s done.
Tip: If the asparagus needs more time, simply cover it again and microwave it for another minute or two, checking it frequently.
Serving the cooked asparagus
Once the asparagus is cooked to your liking, it’s time to serve it up! There are many ways to enjoy cooked asparagus, from drizzling it with sauce to pairing it with your favorite dishes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Drizzle with sauce: For a simple and delicious way to serve cooked asparagus, try drizzling it with a little bit of lemon juice and olive oil. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
Serve with lemon wedges: Another great way to enjoy cooked asparagus is to serve it with lemon wedges. Simply squeeze a little bit of lemon juice over the asparagus before serving to add a bright, zesty flavor.
Pair with other dishes: Cooked asparagus makes a great side dish for a variety of meals. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or steak, and can also be added to pasta dishes or salads.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about cooking asparagus in the microwave:
1. Is it safe to cook asparagus in the microwave?
Yes, it’s safe to cook asparagus in the microwave as long as you follow the proper cooking instructions. Make sure to arrange the asparagus in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate or dish and cover it with a microwave-safe cover or plastic wrap with a small vent to allow steam to escape.
2. How long should I cook asparagus in the microwave?
The cooking time for asparagus in the microwave can vary depending on the thickness of the spears and the power of your microwave. Generally, you can cook asparagus in the microwave for 2-4 minutes on high, checking it every minute or so to make sure it’s not overcooking. You want the asparagus to be tender but still slightly crisp.
3. Do I need to add water when cooking asparagus in the microwave?
No, you don’t need to add water when cooking asparagus in the microwave. Asparagus contains enough moisture to cook properly in the microwave. However, you may want to drizzle a little bit of olive oil or melted butter over the asparagus before cooking to prevent it from drying out.
4. Can I cook frozen asparagus in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook frozen asparagus in the microwave, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. It’s best to thaw the frozen asparagus first and then cook it in the microwave for 2-4 minutes, checking it frequently to make sure it’s not overcooking.
5. What are some other seasonings or sauces I can use when cooking asparagus in the microwave?
There are many different seasonings and sauces you can use when cooking asparagus in the microwave. Some popular options include garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, and mustard. You can also try adding different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for extra flavor.
With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to cook delicious and tender asparagus in no time using your microwave. Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your favorite way to enjoy this versatile vegetable.
Conclusion
Cooking asparagus in the microwave is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious and healthy vegetable. By following these simple steps, you can prepare and cook asparagus in just a few minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time. So the next time you’re looking for a simple and tasty side dish, give microwave asparagus a try!