How to Cook Asparagus and Green Beans Together for a Delicious Veggie Side Dish

In this article, I’ll explain step-by-step how to cook asparagus and green beans together to create a tasty vegetable medley in under 15 minutes. Whether you are looking for a new way to use up veggies from your garden or just want an effortless side to complement your main, this veggie combo is sure to satisfy.

Benefits of Cooking Asparagus and Green Beans

There are many advantages to cooking asparagus and green beans together. Here are a few of the key benefits:

• Complimentary flavors – The earthy, delicate taste of asparagus balances nicely with the crisp, vibrant green bean flavor.
• Nutrient powerhouses – Both asparagus and green beans are low in calories and packed with essential vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, C, and K, folate, iron, and fiber. Eating them together gives you a double dose of nutrients.
• Versatile – This veggie duo makes the perfect accompaniment to all kinds of main dishes from roasted chicken or fish to pasta or tacos. It can also be served as a light lunch or even cold as a salad.
• Fast cooking time – Asparagus and green beans cook quickly, especially when steamed, stir-fried or roasted together. You can have this veggie side on the table in 10-15 minutes.
• Easy prep – Save time prepping by simply trimming the ends of the asparagus and snapping the stem ends off the green beans. No further chopping required!

Step-By-Step Instructions for Cooking Asparagus and Green Beans

Cooking asparagus and green beans together is so easy. Follow these simple steps:

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 1 lb fresh green beans, ends trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1⁄4 tsp sea salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• Squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
2. Add the green beans and toss to coat in the oil. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add the asparagus and continue cooking for 3-4 more minutes, until the asparagus turns bright green and is tender-crisp.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

That’s it! For perfect doneness, I recommend cooking the green beans for a couple minutes before adding the asparagus since asparagus cooks more quickly. You can also add other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Asparagus and Green Beans

• For maximum flavor, use fresh, in-season asparagus and green beans. The thinner the asparagus spears the quicker they will cook.
• To ensure even cooking, try to select green beans and asparagus of similar thickness. Cut the asparagus spears in half or thirds if much thicker than beans.
• Undercooking is better than overcooking to maintain the crunch Cook 2-4 minutes only until veggies reach desired tenderness.
• Toss the veggies while cooking to heat evenly. Use tongs to avoid piercing the asparagus tips.
• Season at the end to prevent over-salting. A spritz of lemon brightens up the flavors.
• Roast them in the oven at 400°F for 10-15 minutes instead of pan-frying for deeper flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Recipe Variations

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving up this dynamic veggie duo! Here are some tasty ways to enjoy asparagus and green beans:

• Season with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, thyme or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Toss with a lemony vinaigrette while still warm for a bright flavor.
• Turn into a main dish salad on a bed of mixed greens, chickpeas and feta cheese.
• Sauté some diced garlic and shallots for the pan before adding veggies.
• Top with toasted almonds or sesame seeds for crunch.
• Make it a sheet pan meal with salmon or chicken.
• Grill the vegetable combo to bring out sweet, smoky flavors.
• Substitute haricots verts, sugar snap peas or Brussels sprouts for the green beans.

As you can see, cooking up asparagus and green beans together makes for a quick, healthy side that is brimming with flavor. The next time you are looking for a new way to prepare in-season spring produce, give this tasty veggie pairing a try. Adjust cooking times and add ingredients to suit your tastes. In no time, you’ll have a beautiful vegetable side to complement any meal!