Canned asparagus is usually available for purchase at supermarkets year-round, and may be used in recipes when fresh asparagus is not in season. The taste and texture of canned asparagus is not exactly the same as the fresh variety, but it can be used to give a dish asparagus flavor. There are many recipes that utilize asparagus from a can. It can be found in soup, casseroles, salads, and quiche. It can also be seasoned and added to pasta.
Making a casserole is an easy way to use canned asparagus. A popular recipe can be made by combining cream of mushroom soup with drained, canned asparagus in a baking dish. Shredded cheese is then added, and the ingredients are topped with crumbled crackers. The casserole is then baked until the topping turns golden-brown. To make a hearty meal, chicken can be added to the dish.
Asparagus soup can be made with canned asparagus, chicken stock, butter, and heavy cream. Garlic and onions may also be used for extra flavor, if desired. The garlic and onions should be sauteed in butter, and then the chicken stock and cream can be added. The asparagus should be cut into pieces and added to the soup. The ingredients need about 30 to 60 minutes to simmer and develop flavor. For a smooth soup, a hand-held blender can be used to puree the pieces of asparagus.
Canned asparagus may also be added to a salad for a different taste and texture. The asparagus is typically soft, which is a contrast to the crispness of fresh lettuce and other raw vegetables. Many salad recipes that call for canned asparagus are layered salads with a variety of ingredients and flavors.
Asparagus from a can pairs well with pasta dishes. Spears or pieces of it can be added to noodles with cream sauces, such as Alfredo sauce, or added to pasta dressed with olive oil or a light white wine sauce. The green color of the asparagus can also make a pasta dish look more interesting. Protein, such as chicken or shrimp, can also be added to asparagus pasta.
Quiche is an egg-based recipe that can be served as a meal or an appetizer. Asparagus quiche can easily be made with canned asparagus. Pieces of the vegetable be added to a mixture of eggs, milk, and cheese, and then baked in an oven. Most asparagus quiche recipes have a pastry crust, but quiche can also be prepared without a crust.
