Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce

Name: Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed; Salt, for boiling; 3 large egg yolks; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; Salt and white pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Inspiration

I absolutely adore the refreshing taste of asparagus, especially when paired with a rich Hollandaise sauce. The crisp-tender texture of freshly blanched asparagus against the creamy, buttery sauce is a match made in heaven. This dish is not only elegant and satisfying but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. By using fresh asparagus and a homemade sauce, you’ll elevate this simple vegetable into a gourmet experience that everyone will love. Join me as I take you through this delightful recipe!

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:41:35.599Z

Every time I make asparagus with Hollandaise sauce, I'm brought back to a charming little bistro where I first tasted this incredible dish. The flavors danced on my palate, and I couldn't believe how simple it really was to recreate at home. The key is to use fresh asparagus and prepare the Hollandaise sauce using the double boiler method, ensuring a silky, smooth texture.

I’ve also experimented with adding lemon zest for an extra zing that brightens the sauce beautifully. This little zing transforms a classic into something extraordinary, and I always recommend it to my friends who want to impress their guests with minimal effort!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crisp-tender asparagus paired with a creamy, rich sauce
A quick yet elegant dish suitable for any occasion
Combines classic flavors with a touch of zest for a refreshing twist

      

Understanding Asparagus

Choosing the right asparagus is vital for this dish. Look for stalks that are firm, straight, and vibrant green, with tightly closed tips. Thin asparagus is more tender and cooks quickly, while thicker stalks provide a heartier bite. A quick tip: if you gently bend an asparagus stalk, it should snap naturally at its weakest point, indicating the freshest part starts lower down the stalk.

To enhance the flavor, consider briefly roasting your asparagus after blanching. A minute or two under a broiler can add a delightful char and deepen the overall taste. Just remember, keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking, which can lead to mushiness.

Perfecting Hollandaise Sauce

The key to a successful Hollandaise sauce is to maintain a gentle heat while whisking. Be careful not to let the bowl touch the simmering water directly, as high heat can cause the egg yolks to scramble instead of emulsifying. You should whisk continuously until the sauce becomes thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

If your Hollandaise sauce ends up too thick, you can whisk in a teaspoon of warm water until it reaches your desired consistency. Conversely, if it separates, try adding an extra egg yolk to a fresh bowl and whisking in the broken sauce slowly to re-emulsify it.

Ingredients

For the Asparagus

1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
Salt, for boiling

For the Hollandaise Sauce

3 large egg yolks
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Salt and white pepper, to taste

Gather all the ingredients, and let’s start making this delicious dish!

Instructions

Prepare the Asparagus

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Make the Hollandaise Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks and lemon juice. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) and whisk continuously. Gradually drizzle in the melted butter while whisking until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and white pepper.

Serve

Arrange the asparagus on a plate and generously drizzle with the Hollandaise sauce. Enjoy immediately!

This dish is best served fresh and warm for maximum flavor.

Pro Tips

Make sure to use fresh asparagus for the best flavor and texture. Don’t skip the ice bath
it keeps the asparagus vibrant and crunchy.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the Hollandaise sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Gently reheat in a double boiler, whisking constantly to restore its creamy texture before serving. The asparagus, however, should be blanched just before serving to ensure crispness.

To keep the asparagus looking vibrant, after blanching, store it in an ice bath if you're not serving it immediately. This technique halts the cooking process and helps retain the bright color. Drain and pat dry before serving or reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This asparagus with Hollandaise sauce can be a stunning side dish for a variety of proteins, such as grilled chicken or poached fish. Consider pairing with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the dish's refreshing flavors.

For a gourmet touch, sprinkle finely grated Parmesan cheese or crispy prosciutto over the asparagus before drizzling with Hollandaise. This adds texture and a savory depth to the dish, turning it into a show-stopping centerpiece at your dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Hollandaise sauce in advance?

Hollandaise is best served fresh, but you can keep it warm in a thermos for about 30 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for egg yolks?

You may use store-bought mayonnaise as a quick alternative, although it won't have the same depth of flavor.

→ Can I add herbs to the Hollandaise sauce?

Absolutely! Adding fresh herbs such as dill or tarragon can elevate the flavor further.

→ Is asparagus healthy?

Yes! Asparagus is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.