Sauteed Asparagus (The Best Recipe)
User Reviews
4.6
Sauteed Asparagus (The Best Recipe)
Description
Young asparagus stalks are trimmed by cutting 1-2 inches off the tough bottom ends. The asparagus is sautéed in melted butter over medium heat after lightly browning minced garlic. Salt and fresh ground black pepper are added for seasoning. A few drops of lemon juice can be added at the end to brighten the flavor.
The asparagus cooks quickly, becoming tender yet retaining a slight crunch and vibrant green color. Avoiding overcooking prevents bitterness and loss of texture. Garlic adds a savory element that complements the natural grassy flavor of the asparagus.
The dish is served immediately to maintain texture and warmth. Young asparagus is preferable because of its tenderness; thicker stalks can be peeled but tend to be fibrous. Organic asparagus is often fresher and more tender.
Trimming and choice of asparagus quality impact the final result. Cooking time is brief, so attentive sautéing preserves the best texture.
Ingredients
- 10 oz. (280g) asparagus young
- 2 tablespoons butter melted, unsalted
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- salt to taste
- 3 dashes black pepper ground
- lemon juice optional
Instructions
- Cut the bottom part of the asparagus stems, about 1-2 inches (2.5cm-5cm). Heat up a skillet on medium heat and add the melted butter. Saute the garlic until slightly browned before adding the asparagus. Toss them with a spatula to combine well with the garlic.
- Add salt and ground black pepper. Add a squirt or two of lemon juice, if using. Once the asparagus becomes tender and just cooked, remove from heat and serve immediately. DO NOT overcook the asparagus.
Notes
- Use young, thin asparagus for tenderness; thicker stalks may need peeling to remove fibrous skin.
- Trim 1-2 inches from the bottom of the stalks to remove tough, woody ends before cooking.
- Choose organic asparagus when possible as they are typically younger and more tender.
- Do not overcook asparagus to avoid bitterness and maintain color.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 94 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1g | |
| Calories | 94kcal | 5% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 8g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Cholesterol | 20mg | 7% |
| Sodium | 209mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.