Preparing an impressive main dish is hard work, so we’re partial to simple side dishes that require little effort. This sautéed asparagus is crispy, flavorful and wonderfully easy to prepare. All you need is a bunch of asparagus, oil, garlic, salt and pepper. It’s almost too easy!
Here’s what you’ll need to make sautéed asparagus (psst: it’s only 6 ingredients!):
- Asparagus: Choose stems that feel firm and do not appear limp or wilted. The tips should be tightly closed.
- Oil: Coat the asparagus so it browns in the pan without burning. We like olive oil for its rich flavor, but rapeseed or vegetables also work well.
- Garlic: Adds a subtle earthy and savory flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Enhance the natural flavor of asparagus.
- Lemon: Adds a touch of brightness and freshness to cooked asparagus.
What else can I add?
This is a great recipe for playing with different spice blends. Attempt:
Asparagus doesn’t need to be cooked for long. Once it turns bright green from end to end, it’s ready! In fact, it’s even better when it’s a bit understated. The texture and appearance should not be mushy or floppy. If prepared correctly, it should retain its “spear” shape.
What to Serve with Sautéed Asparagus
This sauteed asparagus is a versatile side dish. It really goes with everything! We love it served with chicken cordon bleu, garlic butter baked cod, glazed pork chops or BBQ ribs. Drizzle them with some balsamic glaze to take them to the next level.
I served this asparagus with our Parmesan risotto and it was the ultimate fresh and delicious meal for my family.
Sautéed asparagus
This sautéed asparagus is crispy, flavorful and wonderfully easy to prepare. It is the perfect side dish to any meal.
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Cut off the woody ends of the asparagus.
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Add oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Add the asparagus and gently shake until each asparagus is coated with oil. Add salt and pepper and cook, shaking occasionally, until asparagus turns bright green, about 5 minutes.
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Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook until fragrant, 1-2 minutes more.
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Remove the asparagus and sprinkle with a squeeze of lemon juice. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste.
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Portion: 1portionCalories: 60kcalCarbohydrates: 6GProtein: 3GFat: 4GSodium: 584mgFiber: 3G
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How to make sautéed asparagus – step by step photos
Cut off the woody ends from 1 bunch of asparagus.
Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the asparagus and toss gently until each skewer is coated with oil. Shake from time to time until the asparagus turns bright green (about 5 minutes).
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper over the top and add 1 minced garlic clove to the pan and cook until fragrant, 1-2 minutes more.
Remove the asparagus and sprinkle with a squeeze of lemon juice from a whole lemon. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste.
This sautéed asparagus is so easy and delicious!