Honey Dijon Glazed Asparagus

Name: Honey Dijon Glazed Asparagus
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I absolutely love making Honey Dijon Glazed Asparagus for a fresh, vibrant side dish that's both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The blend of sweet honey and tangy Dijon mustard elevates the natural taste of the asparagus, making it a perfect accompaniment for any main course. Whether I'm serving it for a special dinner or a weeknight meal, this recipe never fails to impress. Plus, it only takes 15 minutes to whip up, making it a go-to in my kitchen.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:21:27.763Z

When I first tried Honey Dijon Glazed Asparagus, I knew I discovered something special. The combination of flavors is a game-changer, turning simple ingredients into a gourmet side dish. I recommend using fresh asparagus and high-quality Dijon mustard for the best results.

One trick I've learned is to roast the asparagus just until tender, allowing it to retain its vibrant green color and crispness. The glaze adds that perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Quick and easy preparation in just 15 minutes
Versatile enough to pair with any main dish

Perfecting the Roast

Roasting asparagus at the right temperature is vital to achieving the perfect texture. At 400°F (200°C), the asparagus develops a beautifully crisp-tender texture in about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they roast; you want them bright green and slightly caramelized, with a little char for added flavor. If they are left for too long, they can become limp and lose their vibrant color, so set a timer for around 8 minutes to check for doneness.

To ensure even cooking, try to arrange your asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. If they are too crowded, they will steam rather than roast, leading to a less desirable texture. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some minced garlic over the asparagus before roasting for a delightful aromatic addition.

Understanding the Glaze

The Honey Dijon glaze plays a crucial role in elevating the flavor of roasted asparagus. The honey provides natural sweetness that balances the sharpness of the Dijon mustard, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Using high-quality Dijon mustard can significantly enhance this dish; look for one with a good balance of tang and creaminess. If you prefer a milder taste, feel free to reduce the mustard slightly or use a sweet mustard instead.

Once the roasted asparagus is topped with the glaze, returning it to the oven for an additional 2 minutes allows the glaze to warm and slightly caramelize, making it glossy and irresistible. Just be cautious not to over-roast after adding the glaze; the sugars in honey can burn easily if left too long at high temperatures.

Ingredients

For the Glaze

2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Asparagus

1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste

Enjoy this dish warm as a delightful side!

Instructions

Prepare the Asparagus

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil and a pinch of salt until evenly coated.

Make the Honey Dijon Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.

Roast the Asparagus

Spread the asparagus on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until just tender and vibrant in color.

Add the Glaze

Remove the asparagus from the oven and drizzle the Honey Dijon glaze over the top. Toss gently to coat and return to the oven for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve

Transfer the glazed asparagus to a serving dish and enjoy immediately!

This dish is best served fresh!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some toasted sesame seeds or grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Honey Dijon Glazed Asparagus pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. It complements grilled meats like chicken or pork, providing a fresh and vibrant contrast to richer flavors. Alternatively, you can serve it alongside baked fish for a light, elegant meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted almonds or feta cheese on top for added texture and flavor, making the dish even more eye-catching and delicious.

For a unique appetizer, serve the glazed asparagus chilled with a dip, such as a lemon herb yogurt or even a spicy aioli. This versatile dish can easily transition from a side to a starter, making it a fantastic addition to your next gathering.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish vegan-friendly, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Both alternatives will provide sweetness and complement the Dijon mustard beautifully. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will slightly shift, leaning towards a more robust and less floral sweetness.

In addition, if Dijon mustard isn’t available, a whole grain mustard can offer a different texture and flavor, while still maintaining the tangy essence. Just keep in mind that whole grain mustard may be a bit less pungent, so adjust the quantities based on your taste preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

Fresh asparagus is recommended for the best texture, but if you're using frozen, reduce the cooking time slightly.

→ How do I store leftover glazed asparagus?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results!

→ What can I serve with Honey Dijon Glazed Asparagus?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or as part of a vegetarian spread.

→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the Honey Dijon glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a quick stir before using.