Instant Pot Asparagus is done from start to finish in 5 minutes making for an easy weeknight side dish.
In my home, I’m always turning to my Instant Pot on an almost daily basis. If I’m not using it for making soups, pastas, or even roast then I’m using it to make a quick side dish. Instant Pot asparagus is a delightful and convenient way to prepare this vibrant vegetable. Of course I love to roast asparagus in the oven and also grill asparagus, but when I’m on a time crunch the pressure cooker is the way to go. I love knowing that I can place it in the Instant Pot and not have to monitor it until it’s done cooking.
When you read this recipe please know it is not an error that the cooking time is zero minutes. The asparagus will steam perfectly while the Instant Pot comes to pressure.
Even better, if I’m cooking for a crowd I can double or triple this recipe and know that I will have perfectly cooked asparagus EVERY time. If you’ve been afraid to cook asparagus OR maybe just looking for an easy more accurate way to not end up with mushy asparagus–this recipe is for you!
Jump to:
Why this Recipe Works
Food prep – This versatile cooking method also allows for easy meal prep, making it a time-saving option for busy individuals. Instant Pot asparagus is a delicious addition to any meal, whether served as a side dish, incorporated into pastas or stir-fries, or enjoyed on its own.
Quick Cooking – With the Instant Pot’s ability to quickly steam the asparagus to perfection, it retains its beautiful green color and crisp texture. The Instant Pot allows for precise cooking times, ensuring that the asparagus remains tender without becoming mushy.
Seasoning – Whether seasoned simply with salt and pepper or elevated with garlic, lemon zest, or Parmesan cheese, the flavors of the asparagus shine through.
Ingredients
Steaming asparagus in the Instant Pot requires very few ingredients. Here is what you will need to make this recipe.
- Asparagus – I suggest using the thicker asparagus as they hold up better and are meatier in texture (less stringy, too).
- Seasoning – A simple sprinkle of salt and pepper is all you’ll need; however, you can use whatever seasoning you like on the asparagus.
- Water – You will need a cup of water to steam the asparagus.
How to Steam Asparagus
First, trim about 1 inch of the asparagus ends off. Then was.
Place a wire rack in the bottom of an Instant Pot. Place the trimmed asparagus on top then season with salt and pepper. Pour in the 1 cup of water.
Place the lid on top of the Instant Pot, make sure the valve is sealed. Select STEAM for 0 minutes. As soon as the Instant Pot beeps and the time is done carefully force the pressure out.
Remove the asparagus immediately and serve.
Recipe FAQ’s
Cooking time for asparagus in an Instant Pot typically ranges from 1 to 3 minutes, depending on the thickness of the spears. Thicker asparagus may require a slightly longer cooking time.
A: Yes, adding water is necessary when cooking asparagus in an Instant Pot. Pour about 1 cup of water into the pot, or enough to create steam, which will cook the asparagus.
To prevent asparagus from becoming mushy, it’s important to cook it for the appropriate amount of time. Be mindful of the thickness of the spears and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Using the quick-release method to stop the cooking process immediately also helps to maintain the crisp texture.
It is recommended to cook asparagus spears of similar thickness together for even cooking. If you have a mix of thick and thin spears, you can cook them separately or try to even out the cooking time by slightly adjusting it.
Yes, you can cook frozen asparagus in an Instant Pot. However, keep in mind that frozen asparagus may release more water during cooking, potentially affecting the texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and drain any excess liquid before serving.
A: After cooking, let the asparagus cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or zip-top bag. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or briefly sauté it on the stovetop before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking asparagus in an Instant Pot is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious vegetable. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make perfectly cooked asparagus:
- Selecting the right asparagus: Look for firm, bright green thicker asparagus spears with closed tips. Avoid wilted or discolored ones. I don’t recommend using the skinny asparagus for this recipe.
- Cleaning and trimming: Rinse the asparagus under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Trim off the tough ends by snapping them off at their natural breaking point or by cutting about 1-2 inches from the bottom.
- Steaming vs. sautéing: While you can sauté asparagus in the Instant Pot, steaming is a healthier and faster option. It helps retain the vibrant green color and the crisp texture.
- Using a steamer basket: Place a steamer basket in the Instant Pot and add water to the bottom. This helps to elevate the asparagus above the water, ensuring it steams rather than boils. If you don’t have a steamer basket — no worries. Use the elevated wire rack like I did above.
- Seasoning options: Asparagus has a delicate flavor that can be enhanced with various seasonings. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Cooking time: Asparagus cooks quickly in the Instant Pot. Set the cooking time for 0 minutes. Yes, you heard this correctly. It will take about a minute or two to get up to pressure and that will steam the asparagus during that time.
- Quick release: After the cooking time is complete, use the quick-release method to stop the cooking process immediately. This helps to prevent overcooking and keeps the asparagus crisp.
- Serve immediately: Asparagus is best enjoyed when it’s hot and fresh. Serve it immediately to preserve its texture and flavor.
- Flavorful variations: If you want to add more flavor, consider drizzling some melted butter, olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon juice over the cooked asparagus before serving.
Remember, cooking times may vary depending on your Instant Pot model and personal preferences. It’s always a good idea to test and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Enjoy your asparagus!
Easy Asparagus Recipes
If you make this pressure cooker asparagus recipe, I would be honored and love for you to take the time to leave a ⭐ star rating and comment! I spend hours developing and testing these recipes, and always love to hear feedback and user experience!
Don’t forget to FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram, and subscribe to my email list!
Instant Pot Asparagus
Equipment
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Instant Pot
- 1 Wire Rack
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus
- ⅛ teaspoon Salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Trim about 1 inch of the asparagus ends off. Then was.
- Place a wire rack in the bottom of an Instant Pot. Place the trimmed asparagus on top then season with salt and pepper. Pour in the 1 cup of water.
- Place the lid on top of the Instant Pot, make sure the valve is sealed. Select STEAM for 0 minutes. As soon as the Instant Pot beeps and the time is done carefully force the pressure out.
- Remove the asparagus immediately and serve.
Notes
- Selecting the right asparagus: Look for firm, bright green thicker asparagus spears with closed tips. Avoid wilted or discolored ones. I don’t recommend using the skinny asparagus for this recipe.
- Cleaning and trimming: Rinse the asparagus under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Trim off the tough ends by snapping them off at their natural breaking point or by cutting about 1-2 inches from the bottom.
- Steaming vs. sautéing: While you can sauté asparagus in the Instant Pot, steaming is a healthier and faster option. It helps retain the vibrant green color and the crisp texture.
- Using a steamer basket: Place a steamer basket in the Instant Pot and add water to the bottom. This helps to elevate the asparagus above the water, ensuring it steams rather than boils. If you don’t have a steamer basket — no worries. Use the elevated wire rack like I did above.
- Seasoning options: Asparagus has a delicate flavor that can be enhanced with various seasonings. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Cooking time: Asparagus cooks quickly in the Instant Pot. Set the cooking time for 0 minutes. Yes, you heard this correctly. It will take about a minute or two to get up to pressure and that will steam the asparagus during that time.
- Quick release: After the cooking time is complete, use the quick-release method to stop the cooking process immediately. This helps to prevent overcooking and keeps the asparagus crisp.
- Serve immediately: Asparagus is best enjoyed when it’s hot and fresh. Serve it immediately to preserve its texture and flavor.
Did you make this recipe? Let me know!