Lemon Butter Asparagus with Parmesan

Name: Lemon Butter Asparagus with Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Lemon Butter Asparagus with Parmesan because it’s a simple yet elegant side dish that brightens up any meal. The combination of zesty lemon, rich butter, and savory Parmesan creates a flavor explosion that complements a wide range of entrees. Asparagus is so easy to prepare, and when you drizzle it with this infused lemon butter, it transforms into a delightful experience. It never fails to impress both family and friends, making it my go-to recipe for gatherings!

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:16:10.106Z

Recently, I decided to elevate our weeknight dinners by adding a touch of flair. I grabbed some fresh asparagus from the market and whipped up my Lemon Butter Asparagus with Parmesan. The freshness of the lemon paired perfectly with the butter, enhancing the vegetable's natural flavors. What surprised me the most was how little time it took to prepare such a delicious dish!

After cooking the asparagus al dente, I tossed it in the lemon butter sauce and topped it with generous shavings of Parmesan. Each bite was bursting with flavor! I recommend squeezing an extra lemon wedge on top right before serving; it adds a lovely freshness that's irresistible.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright citrus flavor that enhances the earthy taste of asparagus
Creamy, savory notes from the Parmesan cheese
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of this dish, asparagus, is not just a vibrant vegetable but also packed with nutrients like vitamins K and C, and fiber. Choosing fresh asparagus is crucial; look for firm, straight stalks with tightly closed tips. If the asparagus appears wilted or limp, it's best to select a fresher batch for the optimal crunch and flavor.

Butter and lemon play a critical role in this dish, creating a flavorful, rich sauce that beautifully coats the asparagus. Opt for unsalted butter to control the sodium content and allow the natural flavors of the lemon and cheese to shine through. Fresh lemon juice and zest together keep the dish bright and invigorating, balancing the richness of the butter.

Technique Tips

When blanching asparagus, timing is key. It is essential to keep an eye on it, as overcooking can result in a mushy texture. Aim for a vibrant green color and a tender-crisp bite, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes in boiling salted water. To stop the cooking process, immediately transfer the asparagus to an ice bath; this preserves its color and texture.

Ensure the lemon butter sauce is heated just enough to melt the butter but not so much that it sizzles. This allows the flavors to meld without risk of burning the butter, which can develop an unpleasant taste. Stirring continuously will help achieve a glossy sauce that clings perfectly to the asparagus.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, serve the Lemon Butter Asparagus on a large platter, garnished with additional lemon zest and Parmesan shavings for visual appeal and added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with main courses like grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile side for any meal.

If you want to elevate this dish further, consider adding toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra crunch and nuttiness. Fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, can also brighten the dish and provide an aromatic contrast to the butter and cheese.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Lemon Butter Asparagus

1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Asparagus

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked asparagus to the skillet and toss until coated in the lemon butter sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for some heat!

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover Lemon Butter Asparagus, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop during storage, though the texture may soften. Reheating can be done easily in the microwave; cover it to prevent drying out and heat in short intervals to ensure even warmth.

If you plan to prepare this dish in advance for a gathering, consider blanching the asparagus ahead of time. You can then quickly toss it in the lemon butter sauce just before serving, ensuring it remains vibrant and fresh without compromising texture.

Dietary Variations

For those looking to make this dish vegan-friendly, substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative. These substitutions maintain a delicious flavor profile while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Another option is to swap asparagus for seasonal vegetables like broccoli or green beans if you’re looking for a twist. Cooking times will vary slightly, so always ensure the vegetables retain a tender-crisp bite to match the original dish's charm.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, you can use frozen asparagus. Just make sure to cook it until it's heated through.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This asparagus pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a light snack.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead and simply reheat it before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.