Instant Pot Asparagus with Garlic and Lemon

Name: Instant Pot Asparagus
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp salted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 bunch asparagus (ends trimmed); 1 cup water; juice from 1 lemon

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Instant Pot Asparagus is easy to make and makes a great side dish for any meal. Cooks perfectly every time and tastes amazing with sauteed garlic.

Top view of serving bowl full of instant pot asparagus and lemon halves

Why This Recipe Works

My parents instilled such a love for veggies in me at a young age. Or maybe I just plain loved veggies, I’m not sure which. Either way, I loved them then and still love them today. Bring on all the green yumminess! Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, green beans, broccoli.. I could eat them at every meal like they were candy.

Usually when we prepare asparagus we throw them into a skillet with a little olive oil, but sometimes that space on the stove top is needed for other things. This is where the Instant Pot swoops in to save the day! I love being able to situate my pressure cooker out of the way (sometimes not even in the kitchen) so I have space to do other things.

Instant Pot Asparagus cooks PERFECTLY. It’s tender but not too tender. It is flavored perfectly and it is of course the perfect side to accompany any meal on the planet.

Recipe Ingredients

Asparagus – Select asparagus that is smooth to the touch and still is firm to the touch.
Salted butter – The added salt will help bring out the veggie’s flavor in conjunction with the garlic and lemon.
Garlic – Use fresh garlic and mince it or use a garlic press.
Lemon – Use fresh if at all possible, it’s just better tasting.

How To Make Instant Pot Asparagus

Step 1

Set Instant Pot to saute. Add the butter and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until soft and fragrant. Add the salt, pepper and asparagus and give the mixture a stir. Pour 1 cup of water over the top.

Step 2

Place the cover on the pot and set valve to sealing position. Set timer to 0 minutes on low pressure setting (pressure cook setting). It will take the pressure cooker around 5 minutes to build up pressure before it begins cooking.

Step 3

When cooking is done, do a quick release and allow the float valve to drop.

Step 4

Transfer the asparagus to a serving dish and serve immediately!

Instant Pot Asparagus on a serving platter with turkey and gravy

Recipe Notes

Avoid using high pressure for this recipe or for any veggie that isn’t super sturdy. Using low pressure will prevent super-sogginess.
Feel free to use a steamer rack or steamer basket to put the asparagus in for cooking. When cook time is done, be sure to pour the garlic sauce over the top.
Add seasonings of choice to the garlic mixture when sauteing.
Butter and olive oil can be used interchangeably in this recipe.
Replace the water with chicken broth for an even more flavorful side dish.

How Long Does Asparagus Last

If you have green stalks staring at you from inside your refrigerator and you don’t know whether to toss or eat your asparagus, click over to learn more!

Asparagus in bowl with lemons sitting next to Instant Pot

FAQ About Asparagus

Is asparagus good for you?

One medium spear contains approximately 3 calories and approximately 0.6 grams of carbohydrates. Even better it’s a great source of fiber, folate and vitamins A, C and K.

Can asparagus be eaten raw?

You can enjoy asparagus cooked, raw and marinated.

How do you season asparagus?

Butter or oil, salt and pepper is a great place to start when seasoning steamed asparagus! To take them to the next level, consider cooking them with fresh minced garlic or garlic powder, as well. Cooking them with bacon makes a delicious combo!

Can dogs eat asparagus?

It is not toxic to dogs and safe for them to eat. When consumed raw, it may cause gas or stomach upset if too much is consumed.

When is asparagus in season?

The peak month for asparagus is in April, however it’s typically available February through June.

How do you know when asparagus has gone bad?

There are several ways to determine if your asparagus is going bad: the once firm stalk is limp, the green will darken and almost look black. Moldy spots may appear and a pungent smell can come up.

Best Recipes To Make In An Instant Pot

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This Classic Sweet Potato Casserole is great on your Thanksgiving table and also a perfect side dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
This is the Best Green Bean Casserole for your table! It is a traditional holiday staple, yes, but also great any time of the year as a delicious side dish.
This delicious Crockpot Stuffing with Leeks and Sausage is made easier in a slow cooker! The addition of leeks and sausage makes it unique and delicious.
Tater Tot Hotdish is the perfect comfort food. Whether it’s the main dish or a side, everyone at the table will be satisfied. This Midwestern staple is easy to make and fills everyone up.

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