Quick Answer
Asparagus can be steamed in the Ninja Foodi in just 3-5 minutes. The exact steaming time will depend on a few factors like the thickness of the asparagus spears, how tightly packed they are in the basket, and personal preference for texture. For tender-crisp asparagus, steam for 3-4 minutes. For softer, more well-done asparagus, steam for 4-5 minutes.
Steaming Asparagus in the Ninja Foodi
The Ninja Foodi is a versatile multi-cooker that can be used as an air fryer, pressure cooker, and steamer. Its integrated steamer basket makes it easy to steam vegetables like asparagus. Here are some tips for steaming asparagus in the Ninja Foodi:
Prep the Asparagus
Start by washing the asparagus spears thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Snap off the tough woody ends – they will naturally break where the tender part of the stalk begins.
Evenly trim the spears to the desired length, generally 4-7 inches long. The tips should be tight and compact, avoid any spears with loose or flowering tips.
Use the Steamer Basket
Place the steamer basket into the pot of the Ninja Foodi. Pour 1 cup of water into the pot. The water should not touch the bottom of the basket.
Arrange the asparagus spears in a single layer in the basket. Try to avoid overcrowding.
Steam for 3-5 Minutes
Close the lid and set the Ninja Foodi to steam for 3-5 minutes, depending on your texture preference.
Steam for just 3-4 minutes for crisp-tender asparagus with some snap.
Steam for a full 5 minutes for very soft, fully cooked asparagus.
Season and Serve
When the steaming is done, immediately remove the asparagus from the steamer basket to stop the cooking process.
Transfer to a serving dish and season as desired. Good options are olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, or hollandaise sauce.
Serve the steamed asparagus spears hot or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Factors Affecting Steaming Time
A few key factors impact how long asparagus takes to steam in the Ninja Foodi:
Thickness of Spears
Thinner asparagus spears will steam faster, while thick spears need more time. Choose spears that are relatively uniform in size for even steaming.
Amount of Asparagus
The more asparagus you pack into the basket, the longer the steaming time. Spread the spears out in a single layer for fastest results.
Personal Preference
Some people prefer their asparagus to have a tender-crisp bite, while others like it fully softened. Adjust steaming times based on your texture preference.
Altitude
Higher altitudes will increase cooking times. You may need to steam asparagus for 1-2 minutes longer if at a high elevation. Monitor doneness and adjust time as needed.
| Thickness | Amount | Steaming Time |
|---|---|---|
| Thin stalks | Single layer | 3-4 minutes |
| Medium stalks | Lightly packed | 4-5 minutes |
| Thick stalks | Tightly packed | 5-6 minutes |
Tips for Steaming Asparagus Perfectly
Follow these tips for tender, flavorful steamed asparagus every time:
Size Matters
Choose asparagus spears that are similar in thickness for even cooking. Avoid spears that are overly thin and wispy or extra thick.
Trim First
Always trim the tough ends off the asparagus before steaming. The stalks will become tender during steaming.
Use a Steamer Basket
A steamer basket elevates the asparagus above the water for ideal steaming. This prevents soggy asparagus.
Don’t Overcrowd
Arrange spears in a single layer in the basket, not piled on top of each other. This allows steam to circulate evenly.
Steam Uncovered
Cook the asparagus uncovered so steam can escape. Trapped steam will overcook the tips.
Pull Immediately
Once done steaming, immediately remove the asparagus from the steamer basket to stop cooking.
Season Quickly
Transfer steamed asparagus to a serving bowl and season right away. This helps flavors absorb.
The Best Ways to Use Steamed Asparagus
Beyond simply eating steamed asparagus spears as a side, there are lots of tasty ways to use them:
Salads
Chop cooled steamed asparagus and add to fresh salad greens, pasta salads, potato salad, or grain bowls.
Quiches & Frittatas
Mix bite-size pieces of steamed asparagus into egg dishes like crustless quiche or frittata.
Pizza Topping
Arrange steamed asparagus spears over the top of pizza fresh out of the oven.
Sandwich Filler
Layer steamed, seasoned asparagus in between bread or rolls for a tasty sandwich.
Omelets or Scrambled Eggs
Chopped steamed asparagus is delicious sautéed with eggs for breakfast.
Asparagus Risotto
Stir chopped steamed asparagus into the last few minutes of cooking risotto.
Pasta Primavera
Mix steamed asparagus into pasta along with other spring veggies, olive oil, and Parmesan.
Conclusion
Steaming asparagus in the Ninja Foodi is a quick and healthy cooking method, taking just 3-5 minutes to reach tender perfection. Adjust steaming times based on the thickness of spears, how packed the basket is, and personal texture preferences. Serve steamed asparagus on its own, or incorporate into salads, pizza, pastas, and more. With proper prep and cooking, you can enjoy restaurant-quality steamed asparagus at home using the versatile Ninja Foodi.