If you’re looking to add vibrant greens and wholesome flavors to your vegan meal rotation, asparagus and broccoli are two fantastic vegetables to highlight. Not only are they packed with nutrients, but their distinct textures and mild flavors create a delightful combination in a variety of dishes.
Whether roasted, sautéed, or tossed into a fresh salad, asparagus and broccoli bring a fresh, garden-to-table feel that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
In this blog post, I’ll share several creative and easy vegan recipes featuring these two star veggies. From hearty stir-fries and creamy pasta dishes to refreshing salads, these recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.
Plus, they’re quick to make and use simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Let’s dive into the world of asparagus and broccoli vegan recipes that will excite your taste buds and keep your meals wholesome!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Asparagus and broccoli are nutritional powerhouses, loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, fiber, and antioxidants. These vegan recipes are designed to maximize their natural flavors while keeping the dishes light and healthy.
They are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy plant-based meals without compromising on taste or texture.
From a quick sauté with garlic and lemon to more complex dishes like creamy asparagus and broccoli pasta, these recipes are versatile and adaptable. You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Best of all, they’re easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy lifestyles.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, these recipes will inspire you to enjoy veggies in exciting new ways. Plus, incorporating these greens regularly supports overall health and well-being.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 lb), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 head broccoli (about 1 lb), cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or your preferred cooking oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (optional, for serving)
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for stir-fry variations)
- 1 tablespoon tahini (for creamy dressing)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional, for balance)
Equipment
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Steamer basket or pot with lid (optional)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Serving plates or bowls
- Blender or food processor (for creamy dressings)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Rinse the asparagus and broccoli under cold water. Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Blanch or steam (optional): To preserve the vibrant color and soften slightly, blanch the broccoli and asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer to ice water to stop cooking. Drain well.
- Heat the skillet: Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the asparagus and broccoli to the skillet. Stir frequently, cooking for 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp. If you skipped blanching, cook a bit longer until desired tenderness.
- Season: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes over the vegetables. Stir in the lemon zest and juice for a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Optional stir-fry twist: For an Asian-inspired variation, add soy sauce or tamari during the last minute of cooking to coat the veggies.
- Add finishing touches: Remove from heat and sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy, nutty flavor. Toss in fresh herbs if using.
- Serve: Serve the sautéed asparagus and broccoli over cooked quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal. Drizzle with tahini mixed with a little lemon juice and maple syrup if you want a creamy dressing.
Tips & Variations
“For the crispiest veggies, avoid overcrowding your pan. Cook in batches if necessary.”
- Roasted variation: Toss asparagus and broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and caramelized.
- Garlic lemon sauce: Whisk together lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt for a refreshing drizzle over cooked veggies.
- Adding protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas, tofu cubes, or tempeh for a more substantial dish.
- Pasta recipe: Toss sautéed asparagus and broccoli with cooked pasta, olive oil, garlic, and nutritional yeast for a simple vegan pasta dish.
- Vegan cheese sauce: Blend soaked cashews with lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt for a creamy topping.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 150-200 kcal |
Protein | 5-7 grams |
Carbohydrates | 15-20 grams |
Fiber | 5-6 grams |
Fat | 8-10 grams (mostly healthy fats from olive oil) |
Vitamin C | 80% of Daily Value (DV) |
Vitamin A | 25% of DV |
Calcium | 6-8% of DV |
Iron | 10% of DV |
Serving Suggestions
These asparagus and broccoli vegan recipes pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside hearty grains like quinoa, brown rice, or millet for a balanced meal.
For a lighter option, add them to a fresh green salad or enjoy as a side to vegan grain bowls.
They also complement vegan protein dishes such as lentil patties, tofu stir-fries, or tempeh skewers. Looking for more ideas?
Try pairing with some of my other favorite recipes like the Half Runner Beans Recipe or the Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe to add extra depth to your meal.
Conclusion
Asparagus and broccoli are two incredibly versatile vegetables that shine in vegan cooking. These recipes showcase their natural flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits, making them perfect for anyone looking to eat more plant-based meals.
With simple ingredients and easy techniques, you can whip up delicious dishes that satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.
Whether you prefer a quick sauté, a vibrant stir-fry, or a creamy pasta, these recipes offer plenty of inspiration. Don’t be afraid to customize and experiment—add your favorite herbs, proteins, or grains to make each meal uniquely yours.
For more delicious vegan recipes and kitchen inspiration, be sure to check out my Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe and Lazy Cookie Cake Recipe. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Asparagus and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Description: A quick and healthy vegan stir-fry featuring fresh asparagus and broccoli. Perfect as a side dish or light main course.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and asparagus pieces; stir-fry for 5 minutes.
- Pour in soy sauce, water, and red pepper flakes; cook for another 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 12 g
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