Sauteed Asparagus

Sauteed Asparagus with butter and black pepper is a simple yet elegant dish. The simple cooking technique brings out the natural flavours of this tender spring vegetable. This recipe is a celebration of freshness, allowing the asparagus to shine with minimal seasoning. The result is a side dish that is both versatile and delicious.

To prepare asparagus with butter and black pepper, start by trimming the woody ends of a bunch of fresh asparagus. Blanch the spears in boiling salted water for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and just tender. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant colour.

In a large skillet, melt a generous pat of butter over medium heat. Add the blanched asparagus and sauté for a few minutes until they’re heated through and slightly crisp on the edges. Season liberally with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt. The butter adds a rich, nutty flavour that complements the asparagus, while the black pepper provides a subtle kick that enhances the vegetable’s natural earthiness.

Asparagus with butter and black pepper can be served alongside a variety of main courses. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as steak, chicken, or lamb, where the freshness of the asparagus balances the richness of the meat. For a lighter option, serve it with a fillet of grilled or baked fish like salmon or sea bass. The mild flavour of the fish allows the asparagus to take centre stage.

For a complete meal, consider adding a starch like creamy mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf. These sides provide a comforting backdrop that lets the asparagus and main course stand out. A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio can enhance the meal with their acidity and lightness, perfectly complementing the fresh flavours of the asparagus dish.

Sauteed Asparagus is perfect as a simple weeknight side or part of a sophisticated dinner. Asparagus with butter and black pepper is a versatile and delicious addition to any table.

Sauteed Asparagus

Asparagus with butter and black pepper is a simple, elegant dish that highlights the fresh, earthy flavours of asparagus, perfect as a versatile side for any meal.

4.89 from 36 votes

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Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: French

Keyword: Asparagus, Dairy, Saute, Vegetables, Vegetarian

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 People

Calories: 73kcal

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Ingredients

 

MetricImperial

• 1 bunch asparagus fresh
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• freshly ground black pepper
• salt to taste

Instructions

• Trim the woody ends of the asparagus by bending each spear until it snaps at its natural breaking point, or cut off about 1-2 inches from the bottom.
  1 bunch asparagus
• Rinse the asparagus under cold water to remove any grit.
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the asparagus and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and just tender.
• Immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve the colour. Drain well.
• In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Add the drained asparagus to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on the edges.
  freshly ground black pepper, salt
• Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste.
• Transfer the asparagus to a serving platter.

Notes

Pairing Suggestions:
– Main Courses: Grilled steak, chicken, lamb, or fish (such as salmon or sea bass).
– Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice pilaf.
– Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Nutrition

Calories: 73kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 229mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1025IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 2mg