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Honey Garlic Asparagus

Honey Garlic Asparagus

The ultimate spring side dish, Honey Garlic Asparagus, brings together sweet and savory flavors in a quick, delightful recipe. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds fresh asparagus trimmed
  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 4 Tbsp honey
  • 2 Tbsp soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • 10-inch Skillet
  • Chef Knives
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. You want it to be bubbling but not browning. This will create a lovely base for your asparagus.
  2. Add the asparagus to the skillet. Stir it around to coat the spears in the melted butter. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently. You'll know it's ready when the asparagus is vibrant green and begins to blister slightly.
  3. While the asparagus is cooking, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. The mixture should be well combined, and you can adjust the seasoning to your liking.
  4. Pour the honey mixture over the asparagus. Make sure each spear is well-coated in the glaze. This is where the magic happens!
  5. Continue cooking and stirring for another 2 to 3 minutes. You'll want to keep an eye on it, ensuring everything gets nice and evenly cooked. The sauce will start to thicken and coat the asparagus beautifully.
  6. Once the asparagus is tender but still has a bit of crunch, remove the skillet from the heat. If you prefer your asparagus softer, you can cook it a bit longer, but I love a little bite in mine!
  7. Serve the Honey Garlic Asparagus immediately, garnishing with additional crushed red pepper flakes if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh!

Notes

  • Tip 1: Make sure to trim the woody ends of the asparagus spears. The thick bottom part of the spear is white or light purple in color. It is tough and not meant to be eaten. Use a knife to quickly cut the tough ends off before adding the spears to the baking dish.
  • Tip 2: I kept the asparagus spears whole. Feel free to chop the asparagus into bite-sized pieces if you prefer.
  • Tip 3: I use fresh minced garlic cloves. Feel free to use jarred minced garlic or even garlic powder.
  • Tip 4: Can add ginger to the sauce if you would like.
  • Tip 5: Feel free to add some protein to the skillet to make this a main dish. Shrimp, chicken, and/or fresh mushrooms all work great.
  • Tip 6: Can I make Honey Garlic Asparagus in the oven? Yes! Place asparagus on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet or baking dish. Whisk together the sauce and pour over asparagus. Bake until the asparagus is tender.
  • Tip 7: We didn’t think the asparagus was spicy. Feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes to your personal preference. You can omit them if you wish.
  • Tip 8: Use a gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free side dish.