Elevate your vegetable side dish game with this quick and easy Sautéed Asparagus recipe, a vibrant and healthy option loaded with flavor. Tender asparagus spears are perfectly cooked in olive oil until crisp-tender, then infused with the bold aroma of fresh garlic. A dash of sea salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes adds a savory kick, while a bright finishing touch of lemon juice and zest brings balance and freshness. Ready in under 15 minutes, this simple and nutritious dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as an elegant addition to your holiday table. Whether paired with roasted chicken, salmon, or enjoyed on its own, this versatile recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Wash the asparagus under running water and pat dry with a clean towel. Trim the woody ends of the asparagus by snapping or cutting off the bottom ~1-2 inches of each stalk.
Finely mince the garlic cloves and set them aside.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to warm up for 1 minute.
Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet in a single layer (or as much as the skillet can hold without overcrowding). Let it cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to develop a slight sear.
Toss or stir the asparagus to ensure even cooking for another 3-4 minutes. The asparagus should be bright green and slightly tender but still firm.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Season the asparagus with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss well to evenly coat the asparagus with the seasonings.
Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle the lemon juice over the asparagus. Sprinkle with lemon zest for added brightness.
Transfer the sautéed asparagus to a serving dish and serve immediately. Enjoy as a side dish or as part of your favorite main meal.
Calories |
358 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.6 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1191 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 21.5 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.2 g | 36% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.9 g | ||
| Protein | 10.5 g | 21% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 125 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 10.3 mg | 57% | |
| Potassium | 968 mg | 21% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.