Asparagus, a spring delicacy, is known for its delicate flavor and vibrant green color. While traditionally steamed or roasted, you can also enjoy perfectly cooked asparagus in the microwave. This method offers convenience and speed, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you're short on time. With just a few simple steps and the right technique, you can achieve tender-crisp asparagus that's ready to be enjoyed as a side dish, part of a salad, or incorporated into your favorite recipe.
How to Prepare Asparagus in the Microwave
1. Choosing and Preparing Asparagus
Selection: When selecting asparagus, look for spears with tightly closed tips. Avoid spears that are wilted, yellowed, or have broken tips.
Preparation:
- Trim the Ends: Use a sharp knife to trim the woody ends of the asparagus. To find the breaking point, snap each spear at the base – where it naturally breaks – for the best results.
- Wash and Dry: Rinse the asparagus spears under cool running water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Microwave Cooking Techniques
Method 1: Steaming
- Steam Basket: Place a steamer basket inside a microwave-safe bowl.
- Water: Add about 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the bowl.
- Asparagus: Arrange the asparagus spears in the steamer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Microwave: Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (pierced with a few holes for steam to escape). Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the spears and the power of your microwave.
- Check: Use a fork to test for doneness. The asparagus should be tender but still have a slight bite.
Method 2: Direct Microwave Cooking
- Microwave-Safe Dish: Arrange the asparagus spears in a single layer in a microwave-safe dish.
- Water: Add a tablespoon or two of water to the bottom of the dish to create steam.
- Cover: Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (pierced with a few holes).
- Microwave: Microwave on high for 2-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- Check: Use a fork to test for doneness.
Tips for Perfect Microwave Asparagus:
- Stagger the Spears: When arranging asparagus in the microwave, try to stagger the spears to ensure even cooking.
- Don't Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the microwave dish or steamer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and steaming.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your asparagus while it's cooking to prevent overcooking.
- Seasoning: Season the asparagus with salt and pepper to taste after cooking. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or lemon juice.
3. Serving and Storage
Serving: Microwave-cooked asparagus can be served immediately as a side dish. It complements a wide range of dishes, from grilled fish and chicken to pasta and salads.
Storing: If you have leftover asparagus, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.
Variations on Microwave Asparagus
Garlic Asparagus: Add a clove of garlic to the water or steamer basket for a flavorful twist.
Lemon Asparagus: Squeeze a little lemon juice over the asparagus after cooking, or add a slice of lemon to the steamer basket.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon and cook in the microwave as described above.
Conclusion
Microwave cooking offers a quick and easy way to enjoy delicious asparagus. By following these simple steps, you can prepare this spring vegetable in a matter of minutes. Whether you prefer a simple steamed asparagus or a more flavorful variation, the microwave is a convenient tool for creating a tasty side dish or incorporating asparagus into your favorite recipes. Enjoy the fresh flavor and vibrant green color of this versatile vegetable, cooked to perfection in your microwave.
