Garlic Lemon Butter Asparagus -

I still remember the first time I tasted a dish similar to this one. It was at a cozy family dinner where the table was filled with laughter and the enticing aroma of home-cooked meals. My aunt had prepared roasted asparagus tossed in garlic and butter, and I was instantly hooked. The way the garlic and lemon complemented the tender asparagus made it unforgettable. Since then, I have made it my mission to perfect my own version, and today, I’m excited to share my Zesty Garlic Lemon Butter Asparagus recipe with you.

Garlic Lemon Butter Asparagus

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Garlic Lemon Butter Asparagus, a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. This recipe combines fresh asparagus with rich butter, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic, creating a delightful combination. Ideal for family dinners, holiday feasts, or weeknight meals, this dish is easy to prepare and healthy. Learn the techniques and tips to make this flavorful dish shine on your table. Enjoy a taste of freshness today!

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Ingredients

1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

Juice of 1 large lemon

Zest of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)

½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Prep the Asparagus:

- Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. To trim the tough ends, gently bend each spear until it naturally snaps at the woody part, ensuring you discard the tough ends.

Blanch (Optional for Tenderness):

- If you enjoy a tender-crisp texture, bring a medium-sized pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Carefully add the asparagus and blanch for 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, promptly transfer the asparagus to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.

Melt the Butter:

- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to become bubbly but not browned.

Sauté the Garlic:

- Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Keep a close eye to ensure the garlic doesn’t brown, as burnt garlic can develop a bitter flavor.

Cook the Asparagus:

- Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the spears in the garlic butter. Season with sea salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes if you desire a bit of heat. Sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the asparagus is bright green and tender but still retains some crunch.

Add Lemon Splash:

- Pour the freshly squeezed lemon juice and sprinkle in the lemon zest, stirring gently to fully coat the asparagus with the citrus flavor. Allow the mixture to cook for another minute, letting the flavors meld beautifully together.

Garnish and Serve:

- Remove the skillet from heat and carefully transfer the zesty garlic lemon butter asparagus to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve alongside lemon wedges for an extra squeeze of brightness.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 20 mins | Serves 4