Spring vegetables do not need much to shine, and young asparagus proves that beautifully. This young asparagus with lemon dipping sauce is fresh, simple, and meant to be enjoyed just as the season intends. Whether served as an easy appetizer or a light side dish, this recipe celebrates asparagus at its most tender with a bright, citrus-forward dipping sauce that comes together in minutes.
(Updated, 2026)
Why Young Asparagus Is Perfect for Spring Recipes
This dish requires young asparagus, about the thickness of a pencil. You eat this with your fingers so those young stalks disappear in one or two bites. Dipped into the lemon sauce, you can't stop yourself! Perfect for a patio snack during these cooler spring days!
One day, I am going to start my own asparagus bed. I have tried in the past, but I haven't really educated myself on what to do to be successful. Any tips out there? Pass them on. Bucket List!
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How to Prepare Young Asparagus
Young asparagus requires very little preparation, which is part of its appeal. Because the spears are tender and mild, the goal is to enhance their natural flavor without overcooking them.
Trimming the asparagus
Begin by rinsing the asparagus under cool water and patting dry. To trim, gently bend each spear near the bottom until it naturally snaps. This removes the tough, woody end while preserving the tender portion. If you prefer uniform lengths for presentation, line up the spears and trim the ends with a knife after snapping one as a guide.Blanching young asparagus
Blanching is ideal when you want a bright green color and crisp tender texture. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until tender. Immediately transfer the spears to an ice bath to stop the cooking, then drain well. This method works especially well when serving the asparagus with a dipping sauce.Steaming young asparagus
Steaming keeps the flavor clean and concentrated. Place the asparagus in a steamer basket over simmering water, cover, and steam for 3 to 5 minutes until just tender. Remove promptly to avoid overcooking. Steamed asparagus is a great option when you want a softer bite while still highlighting the freshness of the vegetable.Roasting young asparagus
Roasting adds depth and a slightly nutty flavor. Toss the asparagus with a small amount of olive oil and a pinch of salt, then spread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast at 400 degrees for 8 to 12 minutes, turning once, until tender with lightly caramelized edges. This method pairs beautifully with the bright lemon dipping sauce for contrast.No matter which method you choose, young asparagus should remain vibrant and tender, never dull or mushy. The simplicity of preparation allows the lemon dipping sauce to truly shine.
Growing Your Own Asparagus
One day, I am going to start my own asparagus bed. I have tried in the past, but I haven't really educated myself on what to do to be successful. Any tips out there? Pass them on. Bucket List!
Yield: 32
Young Asparagus with Lemon Dipping Sauce
Fresh and lemony dipping sauce for blanched asparagus
prep time: 10 minscook time: 30 minstotal time: 40 mins
ingredients:
- 1/2 c mayo
- 1 T fresh lemon juice
- 1 T white wine vinegar
- 1 T fresh minced garlic
- salt and pepper to taste
instructions
- Combine all ingredients. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Calories
24.02
24.02
Fat (grams)
2.58
2.58
Sat. Fat (grams)
0.40
0.40
Carbs (grams)
0.15
0.15
Fiber (grams)
0.01
0.01
Net carbs
0.14
0.14
Sugar (grams)
0.03
0.03
Protein (grams)
0.05
0.05
Sodium (milligrams)
31.16
31.16
Cholesterol (grams)
1.45
1.45
Created using The Recipes Generator
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use thicker asparagus for this recipe?
Yes, but blanch or roast longer and peel the lower stalks if needed.
Can the lemon dipping sauce be made ahead of time?
Yes, store covered in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours.
Is this asparagus recipe served warm or cold?
It works both ways, making it ideal for entertaining.
What can I substitute for lemon if I want variation?
White wine vinegar or orange zest offer subtle alternatives.
Springtime Side Dish Recipes
- Asparagus Almondine by A Day in the Life on the Farm
- Asparagus Leek & Potato Chowder by Delaware Girl Eats
- Cilantro Lime Rice with Snow Peas by Art of Natural Living
- Creamy Asparagus Risotto with Dill by Cheese Curd In Paradise
- Honey Roasted Carrots with Lemon and Herbs by Palatable Pastime
- Kicked Up Coleslaw by A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
- Lemon Parmesan Roasted Asparagus by Sweet Beginnings
- Sautéed Sesame-Soy Fiddlehead Ferns and Asparagus by Culinary Adventures with Camilla
- Spring Pasta Salad by Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
- Young Asparagus with Lemon Dipping sauce by Our Good Life
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It is almost asparagus season and I cannot wait! This is a lovely dish. Asparagus always makes me think of Easter!
ReplyDeleteYou will be surprised to know that I have never had asparagus. 🙈 Not sure if it is available here. But after reading through the lemon dipping recipe I will try. 😊
ReplyDeleteI think this is something my kids would enjoy :)
ReplyDeleteLove that dipping sauce.
ReplyDeleteWow--how to make asparagus even more fun! And I've been wanting to plant my own bed too!
ReplyDeleteThis dipping sauce sounds delicious. It's perfect with the asparagus.
ReplyDeleteAsparagus is one of those sides I look forward to eating come Spring-time. The dipping sauce sounds so delicious!
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely dipping sauce! I love lemon and asparagus, and this sounds so good!
ReplyDeleteWe eat a ton of asparagus in our home and this dippingdauce looks amazing. I can’t wait to give it a try.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunalely asparagus isn't something my family enjoys. Wish they did. For those that love asparagus this would be really great dish.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great idea! I want this dipping sauce!
ReplyDeletesimple is best and I can't wait to try this!
ReplyDeleteWe usually cook asparagus with just butter. I'll definitely try your recipe.
ReplyDeleteWe have asparagus in our refrigerator waiting to be eaten. I want to make this sauce for it, thanks!!
ReplyDeleteSo many asparagus recipes today! I can't wait to try this dipping sauce with green beans. No offense to asparagus but it's not my fave. But I still love that dipping sauce.
ReplyDeleteI love cooking asparagus with lemon, but I never thought to serve it with dipping sauce like a finger food! What a great idea.
ReplyDeleteI haven't tasted asparagus yet .Your recipe is motivating me to try it out.
ReplyDeleteMy 2 year old would devour this. She loves asparagus and lemon (and dipping all the things) just like her mama! I'll have to make this soon!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful spring side dish! I love the idea of serving a sauce with it!
ReplyDeleteSimple to prepare and its a healthy snacks! Oh boy I must do this again this weekend for our Netflicks marathon.
ReplyDeleteThis looks so good! Asparagus at the grocery store has been calling my name. We are grilling salmon this weekend and I think this asparagus and dipping sauce would go wonderfully with it.
ReplyDelete