Instant Pot Asparagus

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If you’re a fan of asparagus then you may want to know ‘How to cook Instant Pot Asparagus’. This fast and easy method yields tender asparagus in just minutes. Pressure-cooking asparagus is a great way to cook a larger batch at once compared to cooking on the stovetop. Enjoy this Instant Pot Asparagus with Parmesan. Enjoy this side dish cuisine!

What Does Asparagus Taste Like?

Asparagus has a green, slightly bitter taste with a hint of earthiness. Its texture is tender and crisp, with a slightly crunchy bite.

Is Asparagus Healthy?

Asparagus is low in calories and high in important nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6, as well as folate and iron. It’s also a good source of fiber and protein.

How Many Carbs In Asparagus?

Asparagus has about 2 grams of carbs per serving. It’s a great low-carb vegetable option for those following a keto or low-carb diet.

Why Cook Asparagus In Instant Pot?

Cooking asparagus in the Instant Pot is a quick and easy way to cook asparagus compared to stovetop cooking. Pressure-cooking helps retain the asparagus’ bright green color and tender texture.

Is It Better To Boil Or Steam Asparagus?

It is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer boiling asparagus to achieve a softer texture, while others prefer steaming for a more crisp and tender bite. Steaming asparagus retains more of the asparagus’ nutrients compared to boiling asparagus.

How Do You Trim Asparagus?

Wondering out to cut asparagus properly? Trim the woody ends of the asparagus by bending each stalk until it snaps. Make sure to wash your asparagus spears under cold water then discard the tough ends and rinse the asparagus before cooking. Alternatively, you can also trim off the woody ends with a knife.

What size asparagus should you get?

For this recipe, it is best to use pencil thin asparagus. If you’re using thick spears of Asparagus and want to get it perfectly tender, add 1 more minute to the pressure cook button.

Green Vs Purple Asparagus

Both green and purple asparagus have a similar taste, but the purple variety is slightly sweeter. The color difference occurs due to different levels of antioxidants in each type. Purple asparagus is also harder to come by and tends to be more expensive. You can also buy white asparagus. No matter which type of asparagus you use, they will all cook well in a steamer basket, in the Instant Pot Pressure cooker.

Cooking Time For This Steamed Asparagus Instant Pot Recipe

This Pressure cooker Asparagus recipe takes just 1 minute of cooking time at high pressure.

Asparagus Instant Pot Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this Instant Pot Asparagus recipe:

• 1 Bunch Of Asparagus
• 2 Garlic Cloves – Sliced
• 1 TBSP Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best, but if you’re in a bind, any type of lemon juice will suffice.
• 1/2 Cup Water
• 1 Teaspoon Chili Pepper Flakes
• 1 Teaspoon Salt
• 1 Teaspoon Fresh Black Pepper
• Sprinkle of grated Parmesan Cheese
• Sprinkle of chopped chives

Lemon Juice on Asparagus

Lemon juice adds brightness and freshness to the asparagus in this recipe. If you don’t have fresh lemon juice on hand, feel free to use bottled lemon juice instead.

Can I use Melted Butter Instead of Olive Oil?

Yes, if you prefer the taste of butter, feel free to use melted butter instead of olive oil on the pressure cooker asparagus

How To Cook Instant Pot Asparagus

Here are the Instructions for cooking asparagus in the pressure cooker.

Step One: Add Trivet To The Instant Pot

Add the trivet to the Instant Pot and pour in 1/2 cup of water.

Step Two: Put Asparagus Into Instant Pot

Add Asparagus to the Instant Pot, placing it on top of the trivet. You can also use a steamer rack or steamer basket if you don’t own a trivet, either appliance will produce perfectly cooked asparagus.

Step Three: Add Oil And Seasonings To Instant Pot Asparagus

Drizzle olive oil, lemon juice, sliced garlic, chili pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper onto the asparagus.

Step Four: Turn The Pressure Cooker On

Close the Instant Pot Lid and seal the vent. Set the pressure cooker to manual cook on High Pressure for 0 minutes.

Yes… for this recipe the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure will be enough time to cook the Asparagus through.

Step Five: Quick Release Steam From Instant Pot

Perform a quick release of the pressure by turning the valve to venting. Open the Instant Pot lid and carefully remove asparagus with tongs.

Step Six: Serve And Enjoy!

Serve your Instant Pot Asparagus hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped chives. Enjoy!

Notes – Feel free to adjust the seasonings as required.

Should Asparagus Be Crunchy Or Soft When Cooked?

It is a matter of personal preference, but asparagus is typically cooked until it reaches a tender but crisp texture.

Do I Pressure Cook Thick Asparagus For Longer?

Yes, whilst thin asparagus cooks on a 0-minute pressure cook time, you will need to add one minute if the asparagus is particularly thick.

How To Season Asparagus

Season asparagus with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices before cooking. Try seasoning with garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, or balsamic vinegar for added flavor.

What To Serve With Asparagus?

Asparagus pairs well with meats such as chicken, beef, or salmon. Serve asparagus as a side dish with grains such as quinoa or rice.

Asparagus also tastes delicious alongside roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts.

How To Select and Store Asparagus

When buying asparagus, look for firm stalks with dark green or purple tips. Avoid any that are limp or have wrinkled skin.

Store asparagus in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp paper towel and placed it inside a plastic bag. It should stay fresh for up to four days.

How To Freeze Asparagus

Trim and wash asparagus before blanching in boiling water for about one to two minutes. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Pat dry with a paper towel, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to eight months.

Thaw frozen asparagus in the refrigerator before cooking. It may not have the same texture as fresh asparagus, but it can still be used in soups or casseroles.

How To Tell If Asparagus Is Bad?

Past its prime asparagus will have yellow or brown spots and wilted skin. It may also have a pungent smell. Discard any questionable asparagus in the trash to avoid foodborne illness.

Can Asparagus Be Eaten Raw?

Asparagus can be eaten raw, either shaved into salads or lightly blanched first. However, it is typically more enjoyable when cooked or steamed.

ASPARAGUS F&QS

Who can Eat Asparagus?

• Can Dogs Eat Asparagus? Asparagus is safe for dogs to eat in small amounts. However, the fibrous texture may be difficult for them to digest so it’s best to feed asparagus sparingly. Additionally, the stems should always be removed before feeding asparagus to dogs.
• Can Cats Eat Asparagus? Asparagus is not toxic to cats, but it should be avoided as it can cause gastrointestinal upset. Stick to feeding cats their regular diet and leave asparagus for human consumption.
• Can Rabbits Eat Asparagus? Yes, rabbits can eat asparagus in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, like with all fruits and vegetables, introduce asparagus slowly to avoid stomach upset. Always wash and remove the tough ends before feeding to rabbits.
• Can Bearded Dragons Eat Asparagus? Bearded dragons can eat asparagus, but only in small amounts as a treat. As with all fruits and veggies, wash and remove tough ends before feeding to your bearded dragon. Offer asparagus along with a variety of other vegetables for a balanced diet.
• Can Guinea Pigs Eat Asparagus? Guinea pigs can eat asparagus, but only in small amounts as a treat. As with all fruits and veggies, wash and remove tough ends before feeding your guinea pig.

Looking For More Easy Instant Pot Recipes? Try One Of These!

Instant Pot Carrots

Instant Pot Sweetcorn

Instant Pot Acorn Squash

Instant Pot Coconut Curry

Instant Pot Kalua Pork

Instant Pot Salisbury Steak

Instant Pot Poached Chicken

Instant Pot Feta Pasta

Instant Pot Brussel Sprouts

Instant Pot Ramen Noodles

Instant Pot Cheese Fondue

Instant Pot Turkey Breast