Asparagus is a versatile spring vegetable that adds a touch of elegance to any meal.
But forget complicated recipes! Sauteed asparagus is a breeze to prepare and delivers a burst of flavour and nutrients in just minutes.

With this simple guide, you’ll learn how to achieve perfectly cooked asparagus, crisp-tender and bursting with freshness.

Imagine asparagus spears, a vibrant green with tinges of purple near the tips, glistening with melted butter.
Each bite offers a satisfying snap followed by the subtle sweetness of the vegetable, perfectly complemented by the gentle garlicky aroma.

Cooking Sauteed Asparagus Like a Pro

Discover how to cook sautéed asparagus like a pro with this step-by-step guide.

Learn tips and tricks to create a delicious and flavourful dish that will impress your guests.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Australian, New Zealand

Servings 2 servings

Calories 40 kcal

Equipment

Large skillet, wok or frying pan
Chef's knife
Cutting board
Spoon or tongs

Ingredients

200 grams Fresh 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. Bend the base of each spear until it snaps naturally, discarding the tough ends. If the spears are thick, you can cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Heat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Saute the Asparagus: Add the asparagus spears to the hot pan in a single layer. Saute for 3-5 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the asparagus turns bright green and becomes tender-crisp.
Flavour Boost (Optional): Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Swirl in butter (if using) for added richness.
Seasoning: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Bright Finish (Optional): For a brighter flavour, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus just before serving.

Notes

Recipe Tips:

Don't overcook the asparagus! It should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
Use a wide pan to ensure even cooking of the asparagus spears.
For thicker asparagus spears, consider cutting them on a diagonal for more even cooking.
For a richer flavour, substitute half of the olive oil with butter.
Get creative with seasonings! Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a nutty flavour.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy sauteed asparagus as a light side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
Toss it into Pasta Salads or grain bowls for added texture and flavour.
Wrap leftover asparagus spears in prosciutto for a delicious and healthy Appetiser.

Conclusion

With this simple recipe, you can whip up delicious sauteed asparagus in no time.
This versatile side dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a quick and healthy addition to any meal. So ditch the complicated recipes and embrace the simplicity and flavour of perfectly sauteed asparagus!

Keyword sauteed asparagus