Easy Sautéed Asparagus
This easy sautéed asparagus is one of those recipes I make over and over, especially during spring. It takes less than 10 minutes, needs just a few ingredients and turns out golden, tender and full of flavor every single time. The trick is a hot skillet and letting the asparagus get some real color before you move it. Perfect as a quick side dish, salad topper, or addition to bowls, pasta and scrambles.
4 serving
Calories: 63kcal
Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional Lemon juice, lemon zest, or grated vegan parmesan for garnish
Instructions
Prep the asparagus:
- Rinse under cold water and pat dry thoroughly. Snap or cut off the tough, pale ends of each stalk. You can use your hands to bend and snap, or trim with a knife for even sizes.
Heat the skillet:
- Place a large cast iron or stainless-steel skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer.
Sauté the asparagus:
- Add the asparagus to the pan and toss gently to coat in oil. Let them cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to get some browning, then stir occasionally.
Cook to perfection:
- Sauté for 5–10 minutes total, depending on the thickness of the spears. They should be bright green with golden spots and still have a little snap.
Finish and serve:
- Season with salt and pepper. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, a bit of zest, or a sprinkle of cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Work in batches if necessary so the asparagus sears, not steams.
Use leftovers: Chop and add to pasta, grain bowls, or scrambled tofu the next day.
Thin asparagus: 3 to 4 minutes. Medium: 5 to 6 minutes. Thick: 7 to 8 minutes.
Do not mix different thicknesses in the same pan.
Pat asparagus dry before cooking for the best sear.
Season with salt at the end, not the beginning.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 63kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.2g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 0.2mg | Potassium: 8mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 30IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.1mg