10 Minutes Cooking > Light & Low-Calorie Meals > Low-Calorie Dishes > Microwaved steamed vegetables

Microwave Steamed Asparagus with Parmesan

A quick and delicious way to enjoy asparagus! This microwave steaming method preserves the asparagus' bright green color and crisp-tender texture. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a touch of savory flavor.

Prep Time
2 minutes
Cook Time
2-4 minutes
Servings
1
Ingredients
  • 250 g Asparagus spears
  • 1 tablespoon Water
  • 1 tablespoon Grated Parmesan cheese
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper

Preparation

Step 1: Wash the asparagus spears thoroughly under cold water. Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus. You can usually feel where the stalk becomes tender; the asparagus will naturally break at this point.

Microwaving

Step 2: Place the asparagus spears in a microwave-safe dish. Add 1 tablespoon of water to the dish.

Seasoning

Step 3: Sprinkle the asparagus with salt and pepper.

Cooking

Step 4: Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (poke a few holes in the plastic wrap to vent). Microwave on high for 2-4 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the asparagus and the power of your microwave. Start with 2 minutes and check frequently.

Finishing

Step 5: Carefully remove the dish from the microwave (it will be hot!). Drain any excess water. Sprinkle the asparagus with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately. The heat from the asparagus will melt the cheese slightly.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

  • Calories: 25 kcal
  • Protein: 2.4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4.7 g
  • Fat: 0.2 g
  • Fiber: 2.1 g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Parmesan cheese adds to the calorie and fat content. Use sparingly or omit for an even lower-calorie dish.

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FAQ

  • Can I use thicker asparagus spears?

    Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes. Check for doneness frequently.
  • What if I don't have Parmesan cheese?

    You can use other grated cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago, or omit the cheese altogether for a dairy-free option. A squeeze of lemon juice is also a delicious alternative.
  • How do I prevent the asparagus from overcooking?

    The key is to check the asparagus frequently while microwaving. It should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Overcooked asparagus will be dull green and limp.