A simple side dish, this Maple Mustard Sauteed Asparagus recipe is finished off with a maple syrup and mustard drizzle.

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Originally posted with Potato Chip Chicken, this post was updated July 2014.

Effortlessly Delicious: Maple Mustard Sauteed Asparagus – Your New Favorite Side Dish

There’s something truly special about asparagus. As the vibrant green spears emerge, signaling the arrival of spring, they bring with them a promise of fresh, light, and incredibly versatile meals. While my husband would happily enjoy a perfect steak and asparagus every night, and I share his enthusiasm for its naturally delicious flavor, we both appreciate discovering new and exciting ways to prepare this beloved vegetable. From classic roasting to a simple sauté with olive oil and garlic, asparagus rarely disappoints. But for those times when you want to elevate your side dish game without adding complexity, this Maple Mustard Sauteed Asparagus recipe is an absolute revelation.

This recipe transforms a humble bunch of asparagus into a captivating side that’s bursting with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and remarkably quick to get on the table. You likely already have all the ingredients on hand, making it a go-to solution for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The secret lies in the harmonious blend of savory Dijon mustard, a condiment I could frankly put on everything, and the subtle sweetness of real maple syrup. This duo creates a dazzling glaze that coats each tender spear, bringing an irresistible “extra something” that makes your taste buds sing.

Say goodbye to boring side dishes forever! This Maple Mustard Sauteed Asparagus is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that proves healthy eating can be both simple and exceptionally delicious. It’s perfect for adding a touch of gourmet flair to your everyday meals, proving that sometimes, the simplest ingredients can create the most profound flavors.

Why This Recipe Stands Out: Quick, Flavorful, and Unforgettable

In a world where quick meals often mean sacrificing flavor, this Maple Mustard Sauteed Asparagus recipe truly defies expectations. It’s an ideal solution for anyone seeking a healthy, vibrant side dish that comes together in mere minutes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its elegant simplicity and the sophisticated flavor profile it achieves with minimal effort. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire:

• Effortless Preparation: With a prep time of just 5 minutes and a cook time of 7 minutes, you can have this exquisite side dish ready in under 15 minutes. It’s perfect for those frantic weeknights when time is of the essence but you still crave something homemade and wholesome.
• Balanced Flavor Profile: The magic happens when the robust tang of Dijon mustard meets the earthy sweetness of real maple syrup. This unexpected combination creates a glaze that is both sweet and savory, with a hint of sharpness that perfectly complements the natural taste of asparagus. It’s a sophisticated flavor balance that appeals to even the most discerning palates.
• Incredibly Versatile: This asparagus dish isn’t picky about its companions. It pairs beautifully with a wide array of main courses, from grilled chicken and baked salmon to roasted pork or a simple steak. It even makes a delightful addition to a brunch spread or a light lunch alongside a quiche.
• Nutrient-Rich: Asparagus is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as fiber and folate. By sautéing it to a crisp-tender perfection, we preserve its healthful benefits while making it incredibly enjoyable to eat.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooked in a single skillet, this recipe keeps dishwashing to a minimum, allowing you more time to savor your meal and less time scrubbing pots.

This recipe isn’t just about cooking asparagus; it’s about transforming a simple vegetable into a memorable component of your meal, showcasing how easy it is to introduce exciting flavors into your daily diet.

Choosing and Preparing the Perfect Asparagus

The foundation of any great asparagus dish begins with selecting the freshest spears. When you’re at the grocery store or farmer’s market, look for asparagus that is vibrant green, firm to the touch, and has tight, closed tips. Avoid any spears that appear limp, wrinkled, or have soft, mushy tips, as these are signs of aging. Thicker spears tend to be more fibrous but also more flavorful, while thinner ones are usually more tender and cook faster. For this recipe, a medium thickness works wonderfully.

Once you’ve brought your beautiful asparagus home, proper preparation is key. First, give the spears a good rinse under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. The most common way to prepare asparagus is by snapping off the woody ends. You can do this by simply holding a spear at both ends and bending it; it will naturally break where the tough part meets the tender part. Alternatively, you can line up all the spears and cut off the bottom inch or two with a knife, ensuring all pieces are roughly the same length for even cooking. After trimming, ensure your asparagus is thoroughly dried. Excess water can prevent proper sautéing and dilute the rich flavor of our maple mustard glaze. A quick pat with a paper towel or a spin in a salad spinner will do the trick.

The Magic of Maple Mustard: A Flavor Duo You’ll Love

The combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard might sound unconventional to some, but it’s a culinary pairing that creates an unexpectedly delicious synergy. Maple syrup, with its natural sweetness and deep, nuanced flavor, provides a perfect counterpoint to the sharp, tangy, and slightly spicy notes of Dijon mustard. This dynamic duo creates a glaze that is incredibly versatile and utterly addictive. When drizzled over the crisp-tender asparagus, it caramelizes slightly in the pan, forming a thin, glossy coating that enhances every bite. The result is a dish that is bright, complex, and incredibly satisfying, proving that sometimes the best flavor combinations are found in unexpected places. This glaze isn’t just for asparagus; it’s a flavor profile you might find yourself experimenting with on other vegetables or even lean proteins!

Maple Mustard Sauteed Asparagus Recipe

Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 7 minutes

Total Time: 12 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dish

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A simple side dish, this sauteed asparagus recipe is finished off with a maple syrup and mustard drizzle.

Ingredients

• 1 pound asparagus, cut into 2 inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon real maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Heat one inch of water in a large skillet to boiling. Add the asparagus, bring the water back up to a boil, then reduce to medium. Cover the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the asparagus is crisp-tender. Drain thoroughly.
2. In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, mustard, and olive oil. Whisk until well combined.
3. Drizzle the maple mustard mixture evenly over the drained asparagus in the skillet. Toss gently to coat all the spears. Serve immediately while warm.

Recipe Notes:

Recipe source: Betty Crocker’s Quick and Easy Cookbook

Tips for Perfect Sauteed Asparagus Every Time

Achieving perfectly crisp-tender asparagus is easier than you think, and a few simple tips can make all the difference:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the asparagus, ensure you’re using a large enough skillet so the spears aren’t piled on top of each other. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than sautéing, resulting in less vibrant and less crisp asparagus.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Asparagus cooks quickly. Keep a close eye on it during the 4-5 minute steaming process. You’re looking for that sweet spot where it’s tender enough to bite through easily but still has a slight snap. Overcooked asparagus becomes mushy and loses its vibrant color.
• Thorough Draining is Key: After steaming, make sure to drain the asparagus completely. Any residual water will dilute the flavor of your delicious maple mustard glaze and prevent it from properly coating the spears.
• Adjust the Glaze to Your Taste: While the recipe calls for equal parts maple syrup and Dijon mustard, feel free to adjust the ratio. If you prefer a sweeter profile, add a little more maple syrup. For a tangier kick, increase the Dijon.
• Use Real Maple Syrup: For the best flavor, opt for pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup which is often corn syrup-based with artificial flavors. The nuanced sweetness of real maple syrup truly elevates this dish.

Delicious Serving Suggestions

This Maple Mustard Sauteed Asparagus is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Its vibrant flavor and quick preparation make it an ideal accompaniment for almost any meal. Here are some ideas:

• With Proteins: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, a juicy steak, or even roasted pork tenderloin. The sweet and tangy glaze complements both rich and lean proteins beautifully.
• Brunch Favorite: Elevate your weekend brunch by serving it with poached eggs, a frittata, or as a side to a savory pancake dish.
• Vegetarian Feast: Make it part of a larger vegetarian meal with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, or a hearty lentil salad.
• Pasta Perfection: Toss it into a light pasta dish with lemon zest and parmesan for a complete meal.

No matter what you pair it with, this asparagus dish is sure to impress with its fresh taste and elegant presentation.

Variations and Customizations to Explore

One of the joys of cooking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your preferences. This Maple Mustard Sauteed Asparagus recipe is an excellent canvas for creativity. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• Garlic Lover’s Delight: For an extra layer of savory flavor, add a clove or two of minced garlic to the skillet for the last minute of cooking before drizzling the glaze.
• A Hint of Heat: If you enjoy a touch of spice, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the maple mustard glaze.
• Citrus Brightness: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest over the finished dish can add a refreshing zing that brightens the flavors.
• Herbaceous Notes: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or even a little dill can add a lovely aromatic finish. Add them just before serving.
• Nutty Crunch: For added texture, toast a few tablespoons of chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts and sprinkle them over the asparagus before serving.
• Different Mustards: Experiment with other types of mustard! A grainy mustard can add texture, or a honey mustard might give a slightly sweeter, milder flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: For a deeper, richer flavor, you could substitute part of the maple syrup with balsamic glaze, or add a splash to the maple mustard mixture.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to discover your perfect version of this delightful side dish.

Storage and Reheating

While this Maple Mustard Sauteed Asparagus is undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers if necessary. Place any remaining asparagus in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently to avoid overcooking and maintaining some of its crisp-tender texture. You can warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes until heated through, or briefly microwave it. Be mindful not to overheat, as this can turn the asparagus mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions about preparing this delicious asparagus recipe:

Q: Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
A: While fresh asparagus is highly recommended for its superior texture and flavor, you can use frozen asparagus. Thaw it completely and pat it very dry before adding it to the skillet. The cooking time might be slightly reduced, so watch it carefully to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Q: What kind of maple syrup should I use?
A: Always use pure, real maple syrup for this recipe, not pancake syrup or artificial maple-flavored syrups. Real maple syrup offers a depth of flavor that is crucial for the glaze. Any grade (Amber, Dark) will work, but Amber Rich Taste is a popular choice for its balanced flavor.

Q: Can I make the maple mustard glaze ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil in a small bowl or jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes the final step of the recipe even quicker.

Q: Is asparagus healthy?
A: Yes, asparagus is incredibly healthy! It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins K, A, C, E, and folate. It also contains antioxidants, making it a great addition to any diet.

Q: How do I know when the asparagus is perfectly crisp-tender?
A: The best way to check is to pierce a spear with a fork. It should be tender enough for the fork to slide through with a slight resistance, but not so soft that it collapses. The color should also remain a vibrant green.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Plate with This Simple Side

This Maple Mustard Sauteed Asparagus recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s a fast, healthy, and incredibly delicious side dish that effortlessly elevates any meal, proving that exciting culinary experiences don’t always require hours in the kitchen. The sweet and tangy glaze perfectly complements the crisp-tender texture of the asparagus, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners or entertaining guests.

So, the next time you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful, and fuss-free side, reach for a bunch of asparagus and give this recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how such a straightforward preparation can yield such a delightful result. We encourage you to make it your own with any of the suggested variations, and most importantly, enjoy every vibrant bite!