How to cook canned asparagus

When it comes to cooking with canned asparagus, a common question many individuals may ask is whether it is as good as fresh asparagus. The good news is that when done correctly, canned asparagus can be a fantastic choice to work with if fresh is unavailable. Here, we provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to cook canned asparagus, how to season it, and even some recipes to get you started. cooking masterpieces from canned ingredients couldn’t be simpler, and with this guide, you’ll be ready to take on the challenge and whip up some delicious dishes using just one can.

How Do You Eat Canned Asparagus?

The enjoyment of canned asparagus largely depends on personal preference, as there are numerous ways to consume it. Incorporate it in a salad, soup, or casserole for a delicious meal, or even add it to an omelet for a breakfast delight. Enhance the flavor by roasting asparagus alongside chicken, bacon, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. 

Where to Buy Canned Asparagus

Canned asparagus is easily accessible at most supermarkets throughout the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia. In addition to physical stores, you can now conveniently purchase canned asparagus online from popular retailers such as Amazon and Walmart.

How Do You Prepare Canned Asparagus?

To prepare canned asparagus in a delightful and foolproof way, follow these simple steps:

• Drain the asparagus and gently remove the spears from the can to prevent them from falling apart.
• Season the asparagus to your liking, and then give them a good roast before flipping and seasoning the other side.
• For microwave cooking, place the asparagus on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, and then cook away!

Asparagus Nutrition Facts

Below is the better-structured nutrition information for a serving size as follows:

• Calories: 32
• Total fat: 0g
• Saturated fat: 0g
• Trans fat: 0g
• Unsaturated fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 18mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 3g

How to Cook Canned Asparagus on the Stove

If you’re wondering how to cook canned asparagus on the stove. Although skillet cooking isn’t ideal since the asparagus can become too soft and fall apart, we’ve got some tips for you to achieve the best results possible.

First, heat two tablespoons of oil over medium heat in a skillet. Then, drain the canned asparagus and add it to the skillet. Fry it while stirring for three to five minutes until it’s heated throughout. After turning off the heat, let the asparagus cool for five minutes. To serve, try pairing it with cooked rice, boiled pasta, or a delicious salad. 

How do you cook canned asparagus on the stove?

Preparing canned asparagus on the stove is a breeze and within minutes, you can savor a delicious meal without breaking a bead of sweat.

Start by removing the asparagus from the can and draining the liquid. Wash it under cold running water to eliminate excess brine or salt. On medium heat, place a saucepan or skillet onto your cooktop. Melt a small quantity of butter or heat oil in the pan.

Once the oil or butter is warmed up, add the canned asparagus to it. Over the next 3-5 minutes, cook the asparagus, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through and somewhat delicate. Be cautious not to overcook it since the canned asparagus is already pre-cooked. You can add seasoning, pepper, or any other herb to heighten the flavor.

Finally, take the asparagus off the heat, serve in your dish, and enjoy it as a side dish, use it in your salad or pasta dishes, or add it to your omelet. Experiment with sauces and seasonings until you find the perfect taste to suit your palate.

How do you cook asparagus from a can?

These simple steps will ensure a delicious canned asparagus dish:

• Step 1: Open the can of asparagus and drain the liquid. Rinse it under cold water to remove any excess brine or salt.
• Step 2: Preheat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Wait for it to melt or heat up.
• Step 3: Gently add the canned asparagus to the pan and let it sauté for 2-3 minutes. Stir it occasionally while it warms up and develops richer flavors.
• Step 4: Season the asparagus to your preference with salt and pepper, or any desired herbs or spices. Continue cooking for an extra 1-2 minutes until the tenderness meets your liking.
• Step 5: Once ready, remove the asparagus from the heat and serve it hot. The butter or oil will add a beautiful burst of flavor to the already-cooked asparagus. 

How to Cook Canned Asparagus in the Oven

Just follow these simple steps: 

• First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and then drain your canned asparagus.
• Next, lay the spears out on a baking sheet and season to taste. Pop them in the oven for 20 minutes, and then check to ensure that they’re dry enough. If not, roast them for another five minutes before checking again. 
• Once perfectly crisped, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

How to Cook Canned Asparagus in an Air Fryer

Instructions to cook canned asparagus in an air fryer:

• Preheat the air fryer to 350 F.
• Drain the canned asparagus and set aside.
• Spray the air fryer basket with oil to avoid sticking, or line it with aluminum foil.
• Add the canned asparagus to the air fryer basket.
• Sprinkle the top of the asparagus with salt and pepper for flavor.
• Let the asparagus cook for 8-10 minutes. Flip it over and season the other side with salt and pepper.
• Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until crispy.
• Once fully cooked, remove the asparagus from the air fryer and let it cool for 5 minutes.
• Serve and enjoy a delicious and healthy snack!

How To Cook Canned Asparagus on the Microwave

Here’s how you can cook your canned asparagus in the microwave and be ready to savor it in no time!

• First, drain those delicious asparagus spears straight from their can into a decent-sized, microwave-safe bowl. Second, add either a couple of tablespoons of water or chicken broth for some added flavor. 
• Third, cover and zap on the high heat setting for a couple of minutes – around 2-3 minutes should do it. 
• Finally, when that cooking timer buzzes, take the dish out of the microwave and season with a dash of salt and pepper, to suit your palate. 

How To Make Canned Asparagus Crispy

Follow these steps to have some scrumptious crispy asparagus!

• First, preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature of around 400°F (200°C). Next, open the can of asparagus and drain the liquid completely. Rinse the canned asparagus with cold water to get rid of any excess brine or salt, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Take a bowl and toss the asparagus with a bit of olive oil, ensuring that each piece is coated thoroughly. You can add salt, pepper, herbs, or spices, such as garlic powder, paprika, or Parmesan cheese for some extra flavor.
• Arrange the seasoned asparagus in your air fryer basket or tray in a single layer. Cook the asparagus for approximately 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the asparagus halfway through.
• Finally, once the asparagus is crispy and golden brown, remove it from the air fryer, and it’s ready to serve! Enjoy your crispy asparagus as a side dish or a healthy snack!

How do you store asparagus?

Here’s a simple guide on how to store asparagus like a pro:

• Step 1 – Trim the ends: Before storing, trim the woody ends of the asparagus spears. This can be done by either cutting or snapping off the tough bottom portion.
• Step 2 – Refrigerator storage: To store asparagus for a longer time period, your refrigerator is the go-to option. Wrap the trimmed asparagus in a slightly damp paper towel to preserve its moisture. Then, put it in a plastic bag or wrap it loosely with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re done, store the asparagus in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.
• Step 3 – Room temperature storage: You can store it at room temperature, but only for a day or two. Remember to put it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. You can place the trimmed asparagus in a glass or container with a small amount of water. 

Note: Regardless of the storage method, it’s important to check the asparagus regularly and consume it as soon as possible to enjoy its freshness.

Properly stored asparagus can last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, while room temperature storage may keep it fresh for a day or two.

Tips for Cooking Asparagus:

Whether using fresh or canned forms, there are a few things to know before getting started.

Firstly, fresh asparagus requires some preparatory steps to ensure the most delightful outcome. After opening the asparagus, dispose of the brine it has been soaking in and give it a quick rinse. Trim the ends if desired and remove any limp or discolored parts.

When it comes to spicing things up, fresh asparagus is more versatile than canned. But keep in mind that the added sugar and salt in canned asparagus may interfere with some seasonings. Don’t discard your asparagus because the flavors didn’t mix well there!

Now onto cooking itself. If you’re looking for more flavor, try adding garlic or lemon and roasting the asparagus. Leftovers can be stored for up to three days in the fridge and reheated before eating.

If asparagus isn’t your thing, this cooking method works with other vegetables like green beans or Brussels sprouts. Adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking, which can lead to mushy and unappetizing results. One approach to avoid overcooking is “shocking” by placing the asparagus in a dish of ice-cold water after cooking to stop the process and retain a bright and crisp texture. Enjoy!

Common Mistakes When Cooking Asparagus

It’s important to keep certain tips in mind. 

• For starters, don’t forget to trim off the tough ends before cooking to avoid a chewy texture. 
• Also, be careful not to overcook the asparagus – mushy is not a good texture. 
• Seasoning with salt and pepper, or your favorite spices, will enhance its natural flavor. 
• Lastly, bear in mind that asparagus only remains fresh for 3-5 days after the “sell by” date. 

What To Serve With Cooked Canned Asparagus

Here are some scrumptious ideas to make the most out of cooked canned asparagus:

• For a simple yet satisfying side dish, serve cooked canned asparagus alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish. Season it with a sprinkle of lemon juice, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.
• Toss the cooked asparagus with cooked pasta or rice, and add some sautéed garlic, olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, and herbs like basil or parsley to create a mouth-watering pasta or rice dish.
• Chop canned asparagus into bite-sized pieces and toss it in your favorite salad. It pairs well with ingredients like cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, sliced almonds, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
• Get creative and layer cooked canned asparagus with cheese and a creamy sauce to create a gratin dish. Top it with breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.
• Incorporate canned asparagus into soups or casseroles to add flavor and nutrition. Think creamy asparagus soup, vegetable lasagna, or quiche.
• Blend canned asparagus with cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or sour cream, along with herbs and spices, and serve with crackers, chips, or bread slices.

Best Canned Asparagus Recipes

Canned Asparagus Soup

After heating your canned asparagus, add it to the other soup ingredients and let the mixture simmer until it forms a rich soup consistency. Next, pour the soup into a high-powered blender and blend it until smooth. For inspiration, check out this recipe by Ina Garten for asparagus soup and swap fresh asparagus for canned.

Canned Asparagus Au Gratin

To create the savory and delicious Canned Asparagus Au Gratin, gather canned asparagus, butter, breadcrumbs, sage, onions, and cheese. Here’s how to put it all together:

First, melt the butter in an 8-inch by 8-inch ovenproof dish. Sprinkle in the breadcrumbs and sage, then bake at 400 F for six minutes. Once out of the oven, mix in the chopped onion and move the breadcrumb mixture into a separate bowl.

In a different buttered dish (we suggest a 1-quart size), add the canned asparagus and top it with a generous layer of cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top. Then, pop the dish in the oven at 400 F for about 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy the heavenly combination of savory breadcrumbs, creamy cheese, and mouthwatering asparagus.

Air Fried Canned Asparagus and Carrots

Air-frying canned asparagus paired with carrots or other veggies such as Brussels sprouts creates a fantastic side dish to complement meals like beef stew and Chicken Piccata. 

Asparagus Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of asparagus
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1/2 cup of your favorite sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs or crushed chips or crackers

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350 F.
• Cook the asparagus in the oven until warm through.
• Grease a casserole dish with melted butter.
• Arrange the asparagus at the bottom of the casserole dish.
• Top the asparagus with the chosen sauce.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
• Finally, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed chips or crackers to create a crispy topping.
• Bake the casserole for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown.
• Serve and enjoy!

Canned Asparagus Salad

Firstly, drain the canned asparagus and add it to a variety of salads, such as potato, Spinach Strawberry, or Julienne Salad, to name a few. You can take it a step further by serving it cold or warm, depending on your desired result. 

Canned Asparagus With Chicken

Canned asparagus and chicken are versatile ingredients that can be utilized in various recipes, ranging from a hearty Asparagus Chicken Casserole, to a comforting Asparagus Chicken Soup, or even a light and refreshing Asparagus Chicken Salad. Consider these options to elevate your dishes using canned asparagus and chicken.

Canned Asparagus Quiche

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 1 cup canned asparagus, drained and chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyere, cheddar, or Swiss)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk or half-and-half
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: diced cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or herbs like thyme or parsley

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your quiche recipe.
• Unroll your pre-made pie crust and lay it on your pie dish, trimming any excess crust.
• In a bowl, whisk the eggs, milk/half-and-half, salt, and pepper until properly combined. You can also toss in herbs or optional additions at this stage.
• Spread the chopped canned asparagus and shredded cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust.
• Pour the egg mixture evenly onto the asparagus and cheese, ensuring you cover the filling.
• Bake the quiche according to the recipe’s instructions or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
• Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Canned Asparagus With Eggs

An effortless and mouth-watering breakfast made with canned asparagus and eggs. Start by draining and mashing the asparagus with a fork (or a blender), then mix it with eggs, cheddar cheese, and your choice of seasonings. Cook the mixture in a frying pan until it’s set, and voila! 

Baked Canned Asparagus With Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F.
• Next, melt a little butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
• Add some diced onions and cook until they’re tender-crisp (for around 3-5 minutes).
• Then stir in flour, and cook for a minute.
• Pour in some milk and wait for it to thicken (for around 3-5 minutes), stirring constantly.
• Add your favorite cheese, and stir until it has melted.
• Finally, add drained canned asparagus. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish (1 ½ quart), and bake for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and remove it when it’s heated through and lightly browned.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious dish!

Roasted Canned Asparagus

Asparagus from a can, being already cooked, may not be best suited for roasting in an air fryer or oven for the desired results. However, if you’re feeling adventurous and still want to try it out, we’ve got just the guide for you!

• First, preheat your oven or air fryer to around 400°F (200°C). Then, drain your canned asparagus and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture it may have picked up along the way. Next, spread the asparagus spears out evenly on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. If using the oven, you might want to line the baking sheet with parchment paper for convenience.
• Now, here’s the fun part: drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the asparagus and add a generous pinch of salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings or herbs. Pro-tip: toss the asparagus gently to coat it evenly, and feel free to get creative with your seasoning combos!
• If using the oven, pop the baking sheet in and roast for around 10-12 minutes or when you achieve slight crispiness.
• If using the air fryer, place the asparagus in the basket and cook for about another 6-8 minutes, sharing the basket or flipping the asparagus halfway through to allow for even cooking.

Be sure to keep an eye on those spears to prevent overcooking – remember that they’ve already been cooked once, so they only need a little extra love to be at their best.

FAQs on how to cook canned asparagus

Which is the Best? Canned Asparagus or Fresh Asparagus?

If you’re looking for convenience, canned asparagus will be the best choice – it’s quick and easy to prepare. If you’re looking for maximum flavor, fresh asparagus is the way to go.

Can you eat canned asparagus cold?

Yes, you can eat canned asparagus cold. It is a great addition to salads and other cold dishes or appetizers.

Are canned asparagus good for you?

Yes, canned asparagus is still a healthy and nutritious choice. However, fresh asparagus is usually considered to be the better option because it contains more vitamins and minerals. Eating canned asparagus in moderation can still provide your body with the necessary nutrients and fiber.

Does Canned Asparagus Need To Be Cooked?

Yes, canned asparagus should be cooked before consuming it. It is best to cook canned asparagus in a pan with some oil or butter for 5-7 minutes until it’s tender and slightly browned.

What is the best way to cook asparagus?

The best way to cook asparagus is by roasting it. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, then spread the asparagus on a baking tray, sprinkle with olive oil and seasonings of your choice, and roast for 15-20 minutes until tender and lightly browned. Alternatively, you can also steam or sauté asparagus for a few minutes until it’s cooked to your desired preference.

Can you eat asparagus if you’re on a diet?

Yes, asparagus can be a great addition to any diet plan. It is low in calories and rich in fiber and vitamins – making it an excellent source of nutrition for weight loss or maintenance. Additionally, asparagus can help increase satiety and reduce hunger cravings.

What does asparagus taste like?

Asparagus has a mild flavor and slightly sweet taste. It is also crunchy when cooked correctly, which adds an enjoyable texture. When eating asparagus raw, the taste can be likened to celery or broccoli. When cooked, it takes on more of a nutty and earthy flavor.

What is the white stuff on asparagus?

The white stuff on asparagus is a coating of wax that helps preserve freshness and flavor. It can be peeled away before cooking or eating. Alternatively, it can also be washed off with warm water. This wax coating does not affect the taste of the asparagus in any way.

What is the difference between green and white asparagus?

Green asparagus and white asparagus are the same vegetables, but they have different growing methods. Green asparagus is grown in direct sunlight, which causes it to turn green from chlorophyll production. White asparagus is grown under mounds of soil so that the stalks don’t get any sunlight, resulting in a tender texture and milder flavor. White asparagus is also more expensive due to the labor-intensive growing process.

Can I Cook Canned Asparagus in the Microwave?

Yes, you can cook canned asparagus in the microwave. Place the asparagus spears in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for two to three minutes or until tender. Allow to cool before eating.

Can you freeze Asparagus?

Yes, you can freeze asparagus. Blanch the spears for 2 minutes in boiling water, then place them in a sealed bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 6 months. When ready to use, thaw the frozen asparagus overnight in the refrigerator before cooking them.

Conclusion: how to cook canned asparagus

Cooking canned asparagus can be simple and straightforward. As you have learned, all it takes is a few ingredients, some basic cooking methods, and the right seasonings. By following these easy steps, you can whip up an impressive dish to share with family and friends. Preparing this dish regularly can add healthful vegetables to your diet and reward your taste buds with delicious results. And don’t forget to pick up the necessary ingredients for maximum quality. 

References:

• Lion’s Mane Mushrooms Recipes
• Ina garten scalloped potatoes
• Frozen Okra in Air Fryer Recipe
• How to roast frozen corn in the oven
• Pioneer Woman carrot cake recipe