Name: How To Cook Asparagus In A Pan
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 250 g Asparagus spears; 1 tablespoon Olive oil; 2 cloves Garlic (minced); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1 tablespoon Butter (optional); 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (optional)

Asparagus is a nutritional powerhouse, but sometimes boiling it leaves it limp and flavourless.
Pan-searing unlocks a whole new world of taste and texture.

This simple recipe delivers tender-crisp asparagus in just 10 minutes, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

How To Cook Asparagus In A Pan

Learn how to quickly and easily cook asparagus in a frying pan in just 10 minutes with this simple searing method. Enjoy tender, flavourful asparagus as a tasty side dish.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 3

Cook Time 7

Total Time 10

Course Side Dish

Cuisine New Zealand

Servings 2 serves

Calories 50 kcal

Equipment

1 Large skillet or frying pan
1 Tongs
1 Spoon
1 Vegetable peeler (optional)

Ingredients

250 g Asparagus spears
1 tablespoon Olive oil
2 cloves Garlic minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon Butter optional
1 tablespoon Lemon juice optional

Instructions

Prep the Asparagus: Wash and trim the asparagus spears. You can snap off the woody ends by bending the spear until it breaks naturally, or use a vegetable peeler to remove a thin layer from the bottom 2.5cm (1 inch).
Heat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the asparagus in a single layer. Don't overcrowd the pan, or the asparagus will steam instead of sear.
Sear and Season: Season the asparagus generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender-crisp and golden brown. Use tongs to turn the asparagus for even cooking.
Flavour Boost (Optional): Once the asparagus is cooked, add minced garlic to the pan and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Swirl in a knob of butter and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra layer of richness and brightness.
Serve: Transfer the asparagus to a plate and enjoy immediately!

Notes

Tips:

For thicker asparagus spears, cook for an additional minute or two per side.
If you don't have a vegetable peeler, simply rub the bottom inch of the asparagus spears between your thumb and forefinger to remove any woody texture.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings! Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Conclusion:
Pan-searing asparagus is a quick and easy way to elevate this delicious vegetable. With its vibrant green colour, tender-crisp texture, and savoury flavour, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight staple.

Keyword how to cook asparagus in a pan