Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound fresh asparagus
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Tongs
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Wash the asparagus and trim off the tough ends.
2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the asparagus to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender but still crisp.
7. If desired, add lemon juice to the skillet and toss to combine.
8. Serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 70
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Olive oil can be used instead of butter.
- Minced shallots can be used instead of garlic.
- Balsamic vinegar can be used instead of lemon juice.
Variations:
- Add grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet before serving.
- Top the cooked asparagus with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme.
- Wrap the asparagus in bacon before cooking for a decadent twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Choose asparagus that is bright green and firm.
- To trim the tough ends of the asparagus, gently bend each spear until it snaps at the natural breaking point.
- Use tongs to toss the asparagus in the skillet to prevent it from breaking.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover garlic butter asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the garlic butter asparagus in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the cooked asparagus on a platter and sprinkle with fresh herbs or Parmesan cheese.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese.
Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or steak.
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts.
- Quinoa or brown rice.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the asparagus is too tough, it may not have been cooked long enough. Cover the skillet and continue cooking until tender.
Food safety advice:
- Wash hands and all utensils and surfaces that come into contact with raw asparagus to prevent cross-contamination.
Food history:
- Asparagus has been cultivated for thousands of years and was prized by ancient Greeks and Romans for its medicinal properties.
Flavor profiles:
- The garlic butter adds richness and depth of flavor to the fresh, slightly bitter asparagus.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the garlic butter asparagus as a side dish with your favorite protein.
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Taste: Savory, Garlicky, Buttery, Herbaceous