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Blistered Asparagus

This vibrant blistered asparagus dish is a sophisticated vegan side that brings a fresh, contemporary punch to your table. By searing the spears over a high heat in a frying pan, you achieve a beautiful char while retaining the vegetable’s natural crunch and sweetness. It is a wonderful way to celebrate the short-lived British asparagus season or to brighten up a simple midweek meal with bold, citrusy flavours.

Balanced with a savoury soy dressing and finished with toasted coconut and salted peanuts, this recipe offers a perfect contrast of textures. The addition of ginger and Fresno chilli provides a gentle warmth without overpowering the delicate greens. Serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice or as a standalone starter for a light but flavourful plant-based option.

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Ingredients for Blistered Asparagus

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 350g asparagus, trimmed

  • 1 Fresno chilli, seeds removed, finely chopped

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

  • 1 teaspoon vegan honey

  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

  • 1 teaspoon finely grated peeled ginger

  • 2 tablespoons crushed salted, dry-roasted peanuts

  • 2 tablespoons toasted unsweetened shredded coconut

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook asparagus, tossing often, until stalks are bright green, blistered in spots, and tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and transfer to a platter.

Stir chilli, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, and ginger in a small bowl to combine. Mix in peanuts and coconut and spoon over asparagus.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 4 Feb 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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