Simple Boiled Asparagus
A simple recipe for boiling asparagus, perfect as a side dish. Includes instructions for preparing and cooking the asparagus, as well as serving suggestions.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch (about 1 pound) Fresh asparagus (Choose firm, bright green stalks with tightly closed tips.)
- 6 cups Water (For boiling)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (For boiling water)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (For serving)
Instructions
- 1Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus stalks as far down as they will easily break. This removes the woody part. Untie the bunch, wash the asparagus thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Remove any small scales or leaves from the stalks. Retie the bunch loosely with kitchen twine.
- 2Bring the water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add the salt. Gently lower the asparagus bunch into the boiling water, ensuring the tips are above the water line for the first 10 minutes of cooking. Cook for a total of 15 minutes, or until the stalks are tender but still slightly firm. You can test for doneness by piercing a stalk with a fork.
- 3Carefully remove the asparagus from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Drain well. Remove the kitchen twine. Spread the asparagus with soft butter and serve immediately. Alternatively, serve on toast.