The Best Lemon Sauce For Asparagus – Recipe And Video

Lemon sauce for asparagus is a classic combination that elevates the simple vegetable into a sophisticated dish. The bright and tangy flavor of lemon pairs perfectly with the tender and crisp asparagus, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch or a special occasion dinner, lemon sauce for asparagus is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the asparagus: Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and cut into 1-inch pieces.
2. Melt the butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Whisk in the flour: Gradually whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chicken broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Stir in the lemon juice: Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
7. Add the asparagus: Add the asparagus to the sauce and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
8. Garnish and serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh lemon zest or chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Variations

• Add garlic: For a more flavorful sauce, sauté a minced garlic clove in the butter before adding the flour.
• Use white wine: Substitute chicken broth with dry white wine for a richer flavor.
• Add cream: For a creamy sauce, whisk in 1/2 cup of heavy cream after adding the lemon juice.
• Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, thyme, or rosemary, to enhance the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve lemon sauce for asparagus as a side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or pork.
• Use it as a topping for pasta or rice.
• Pair it with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1/4 cup sauce with 1/2 cup asparagus):

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15 grams
• Protein: 5 grams

Tips

• For the best results, use fresh asparagus. If using frozen asparagus, thaw it completely before cooking.
• Don’t overcook the asparagus. It should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few minutes longer.
• Serve the lemon sauce for asparagus immediately to preserve its freshness.

Finishing Touches

To elevate your lemon sauce for asparagus, consider these finishing touches:

• Add a squeeze of lemon: Before serving, drizzle a little extra lemon juice over the asparagus for a burst of freshness.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: Chopped parsley, basil, or chives add a vibrant touch of color and flavor.
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese: A sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and salty dimension.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

• A: Yes, you can use frozen asparagus. Thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: How do I store leftover lemon sauce for asparagus?

• A: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I make the lemon sauce ahead of time?

• A: Yes, you can make the sauce up to 24 hours ahead. Reheat it over low heat before serving.