Asparagus with horseradish butter

Asparagus with horseradish butter combines tender, steamed asparagus with a zesty horseradish-infused butter for a flavorful side dish. This recipe balances the earthiness of the asparagus with a bold kick, making it suitable for both casual and formal meals.

29 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1.50 tbsp horseradish
1 tbsp olive oil
2 lb asparagus
2.50 tbsp butter
Asparagus with horseradish butter

Asparagus with horseradish butter is an elegant and flavorful side dish perfect for any meal. This dish combines the earthy taste of asparagus with the bold and zesty kick of horseradish-infused butter, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you're preparing a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and elevate your dining experience.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Start by rinsing the asparagus under cold water.
- Trim the tough, woody ends off the asparagus stalks. An easy way to do this is to gently bend each stalk; it will naturally snap at the point where the tender part begins.
2. Steaming the Asparagus:
- Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of water, and place a steamer basket inside.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the asparagus to the steamer basket, cover the pot with a lid, and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender but still crisp. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the asparagus spears.
- Remove the asparagus from the steamer and set aside.
3. Making the Horseradish Butter:
- While the asparagus is steaming, place a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add the butter to the saucepan and let it melt slowly.
- Once the butter has melted, stir in the horseradish until well combined. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warmed through and well blended.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat.
4. Finishing the Dish:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the steamed asparagus and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until they are lightly browned, turning them occasionally with tongs to ensure even cooking.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, if desired.
5. Serving:
- Transfer the sautéed asparagus to a serving platter.
- Drizzle the warm horseradish butter over the asparagus.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately as a delightful side dish with your favorite main course.

This delightful Asparagus with Horseradish Butter is an easy yet sophisticated recipe that brings together simplicity and flavor. The crisp-tender asparagus combined with the rich and tangy horseradish butter is a side dish that stands out in any meal setting. Enjoy your delicious creation and impress your family and friends with this culinary masterpiece.

Asparagus with horseradish butter FAQ:

How do I know when the asparagus is done steaming?

The asparagus is done steaming when it is tender but still crisp. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes, but the exact timing may vary depending on the thickness of the spears.

Can I prepare the horseradish butter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the horseradish butter ahead of time. Simply melt the butter and mix in the horseradish, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before drizzling over the asparagus.

What can I substitute for horseradish in this recipe?

If you don't have horseradish, you can substitute with prepared wasabi or a mix of Dijon mustard with a pinch of cayenne for a similar kick, though the flavor will differ slightly.

How should I store leftover asparagus with horseradish butter?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

What is the best way to cut asparagus for this recipe?

Trim the tough, woody ends off the asparagus stalks by gently bending each stalk; it will naturally snap at the point where the tender part begins.

Tips:

- Choose fresh asparagus: For the best flavor and texture, select firm, bright green asparagus stalks with closed tips. Avoid any that are wilting or have a strong odor.

- Trim asparagus properly: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus stalks by bending them. They will naturally break at the right point. Alternatively, you can use a knife to trim about an inch off the bottoms.

- Blanch the asparagus: To maintain the vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture, blanch the asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process.

- Prepare the horseradish butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the horseradish until well mixed. You can adjust the amount of horseradish based on your preferred level of spiciness.

- Cook the asparagus: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the blanched asparagus and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.

- Finish with horseradish butter: Once the asparagus is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the horseradish butter until the asparagus is well coated. Serve immediately for the best taste.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 110kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 4.94g
Sugar 4.76g
Fat 11g

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