Garlic Parmesan Butter Asparagus
🍴 Serves: 4
⏱️ Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins
✅ Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) asparagus, trimmed
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges (optional, for garnish)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Asparagus:
Trim the tough ends of the asparagus. To do this, hold each spear and gently bend it; it will naturally snap at the point where the tough part ends.
2. Cook the Asparagus:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the asparagus to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes, occasionally turning the asparagus, until they are tender but still have a slight crispness.
3. Add Garlic and Butter:
Push the asparagus to the side of the skillet and add the butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
Toss the asparagus in the garlic butter mixture until fully coated.
4. Add Parmesan:
Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the asparagus and toss again to coat the spears evenly. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
5. Season:
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like, squeeze a little lemon juice over the asparagus for a fresh, zesty kick.
6. Serve:
Transfer the garlic parmesan butter asparagus to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Serve immediately while hot.
🍽️ To Serve:
This Garlic Parmesan Butter Asparagus is a perfect side dish for grilled chicken, steak, seafood, or pasta. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a healthy snack or light meal.
📝 Tips:
Crispier Asparagus: For extra crispiness, you can roast the asparagus in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes before adding the garlic butter and parmesan.
Flavor Variations: You can add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or lemon zest for an extra citrusy flavor.
Cheese Options: You can also substitute parmesan with other cheeses like asiago or pecorino for a different flavor.
Enjoy this Garlic Parmesan Butter Asparagus for a simple yet irresistible side dish that’s full of flavor and very easy to make! 🌱🧄🧈