Celery Free Steamed Asparagus with Olive Oil & Lemon
Fresh asparagus is one of those vegetables that really shines when you keep things simple, and this steamed preparation lets the natural flavor do all the talking. A quick steam over boiling water keeps the spears brilliantly green and perfectly tender without turning them mushy. Once they hit the platter, a drizzle of good extra-virgin olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice bring a bright, clean finish that feels almost restaurant-worthy. A pinch of sea salt ties it all together, and if you have a lemon on hand for zesting, that optional step adds a fragrant citrus punch that really elevates the dish. The whole thing comes together with just a handful of pantry staples and zero fuss — no complicated sauces, no hidden allergens, just honest, beautiful produce. It works equally well as a weeknight side or an elegant addition to a dinner party spread.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 ½ lb fresh asparagus, tough ends snapped off
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Pour about 1 inch of water into a large skillet or wide saucepan and set a steamer basket inside. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- 2
Arrange the asparagus in the steamer basket in a single layer. Cover and steam until the spears are bright green and just tender when pierced at the thickest point with a paring knife, 4–6 minutes for medium spears or 6–7 minutes for thick spears.
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