Steamed Asparagus with Balsamic Reduction

With just 5 ingredients, this simple Balsamic Reduction recipe adds complex flavor to any vegetable. We especially love it on tender stalks of steamed asparagus.

I love asparagus. It's a funny looking vegetable that tastes oh-so-good. I had always eaten it steamed or sautéed and plain until I met Keith. His easy balsamic reduction adds just the right amount of flavor to this already perfect veggie. It tastes almost sinful, but it's not.

This asparagus dish holds a special place in my heart.  Keith made this for me on our first Valentine's Day as part of a spectacular meal. I will never forget that day. Keith's cooking has a way of making you feel loved and taken care of. He effortlessly created this reduction with balsamic vinegar, rosemary, and a bit of sugar. It makes every bite of one of my favorite vegetables even better.

Ingredients:

• FRESH ASPARAGUS STALKS: 1 pound
• BALSAMIC VINEGAR: 1 ½ cups
• ROSEMARY: 1 teaspoon, dried
• SUGAR: 1 teaspoon
• FRESHLY GROUND BLACK PEPPER: 1 pinch
• ORANGE ZEST: 1 pinch

How to Make Balsamic Glaze (Balsamic Reduction):

• Heat vinegar in medium sauce pan over medium heat for 10 minutes.
• Add rosemary, sugar, and black pepper and heat for 10 more minutes over medium heat.
• Add orange zest and cook until mixture reduces to about half ( about 15 minutes )

How to Steam Asparagus:

1. Cut (break) the rough end off of the asparagus.
2. Steam stalks by placing them in a large sauté pan (covered) with ¼ C water until tender (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove asparagus from pan and place on plate. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the steamed asparagus and enjoy.

What better way to show your love for someone than to prepare them a gorgeous and flavorful plate of veggies drizzled in sweet Balsamic Glaze? It also works with a variety of other veggies.

Expert tips:

• To prepare the asparagus for steaming, simply snap off the ends using your hands. The natural breaking point will remove the woody part of the stem.
• We prefer pencil thin asparagus for this recipe. It cooks faster, and it has a sweeter taste than thicker asparagus.
• Add some more layers of flavor by sprinkling with freshly grated parmesan cheese, a pinch or kosher salt, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
• try our Balsamic Glaze on your favorite vegetables: fresh tomatoes, zucchini, roasted peppers, or roasted carrots.

more of our favorite asparagus recipes:

Oven Roasted Asparagus Flatbread

Rustic Asparagus & Mushroom Quiche

Asparagus Egg Cups

Asparagus Tortellini with Blue Cheese & Pesto

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