Chili’s Asparagus Recipe

Cooking with asparagus is always a joyful experience, especially when chilis are involved!

Fresh asparagus spears sizzling on a grill, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with seasoning.

You’ll love how the spicy kick from the chilis pairs perfectly with the crisp-tender asparagus.

I recommend roasting thick asparagus at 425 degrees F for around 15 minutes to get a lovely brown edge.

Don’t forget to drizzle some chili oil and add a squeeze of lemon for an extra zest.

My favorite part about this dish is how versatile it is—perfect as a side or a snack!

How to Make Chili’s Asparagus Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 bunches Asparagus (trimmed)
• 3 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 clove Garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Wash and trim the asparagus by snapping off the woody ends.

Step 2:

In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Step 3:

Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently for about 2-3 minutes until they start to brighten in color.

Step 4:

Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes.

Continue to cook for another 2 minutes until the asparagus is tender but still crisp.

Step 5:

Remove the skillet from the heat.

Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

Toss everything together to ensure an even coating.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose Fresh Asparagus

Select bright green asparagus with firm stalks and closed tips for the best texture and flavor.

Control the Heat

Cook the asparagus over medium-high heat to bring out its natural sweetness and maintain its crunch.

Add a Bit of Crunch

Sprinkle toasted almonds or sesame seeds on top before serving for added texture and visual appeal.

Garlic and Lemon Timing

Adding the garlic in the last few minutes prevents it from burning, while lemon juice at the end keeps its fresh flavor intact.

Adjust Spice Level

If you prefer it less spicy, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether.

What to Serve with Your Chili’s Asparagus

Lemon Herb Quinoa

A fresh and zesty lemon herb quinoa pairs perfectly with chili asparagus.

The citrus flavor complements the spice of the chili.

The lightness of the quinoa provides a nice balance.

Grilled Salmon

Grilled salmon works wonders with chili asparagus.

The rich and oily nature of the salmon offsets the heat of the chili.

A touch of lemon juice on the salmon matches the zest in the asparagus.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic side that goes well with almost any dish.

Its buttery and garlicky flavor accentuates the chili and asparagus.

It’s also great for sopping up any extra chili oil.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes offer a slightly sweet contrast to the spicy asparagus.

The caramelized edges and soft interior add another layer of texture.

They’re easy to make and complement the dish well.

Tomato Mozzarella Salad

A refreshing tomato mozzarella salad can cool things down a bit.

The creamy mozzarella provides respite from the chili.

The fresh tomatoes add a burst of juiciness.

Coconut Rice

Coconut rice adds a unique twist to the meal.

The mild sweetness of the coconut balances the heat of the chili.

It’s a delicious and unexpected pairing.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

If you’re looking to make a vegan version, you can simply skip the traditional sauces or replace them with soy-based alternatives.

Tofu is a great addition to this dish, providing extra protein and texture.

Simply cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and dry them thoroughly with a paper towel before cooking.

Spice Level Adjustments

Not everyone loves the same level of heat, so feel free to adjust the amount of chiles according to your preference.

You can use milder chiles or reduce the quantity for those who prefer something less spicy.

On the other hand, if you like it really hot, go ahead and increase the number of chiles or add a bit of chili-garlic sauce!

Alternative Vegetables

Don’t have asparagus on hand or want to switch things up?

You can substitute green beans or snap peas for a different but tasty crunch.

Cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a harmonious dish.

Flavor Enhancements

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of sesame seeds right before serving.

Grated ginger and chopped garlic can also bring an aromatic element to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

How to Store Leftover Chilis Asparagus Recipe

Proper Storage Techniques

Always use an airtight container to store your leftover chilis asparagus recipe to keep it fresh.

Place the container in the refrigerator as soon as it cools down to room temperature to prevent any bacterial growth.

Make sure not to overcrowd the container to allow proper air circulation and maintain the quality of the asparagus.

Wrapping and Protection

Wrap the asparagus in a damp paper towel before placing it in the container to keep it from drying out.

Add a plastic bag or plastic wrap over the container to give it an extra layer of protection against air exposure.

Refrigerator Placement

Store the container in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator to keep the asparagus fresh for a few days.

Keep an eye on the asparagus and consume it within three to four days for the best flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking

Avoid overcooking the asparagus, as it can turn mushy and lose its vibrant color. Blanch for 3 to 5 minutes, then test with a fork. It should be tender but still crisp.

Ignoring Varieties

Experiment with different asparagus varieties! Green, white, and purple types each have unique flavors and textures. Don’t miss out on the full experience by sticking to just one.

Skipping Proper Salting

When blanching asparagus, salt the water generously. It should taste like seawater! This enhances the flavor of the asparagus and prevents it from becoming bland.