With its tender stalks and gentle sear, Pan-Fried Asparagus makes for a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. Add some color to your plate with this super easy side dish!
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Why you'll love this recipe
Pan-fried asparagus is a delicious and healthy side dish that's both crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. For an extra pop of flavor, try squeezing a fresh lemon over your dish just before serving.
This versatile dish works well as a side for a main course or as a healthy and satisfying snack on its own. Whether you're pairing it with grilled chicken or enjoying it as a standalone dish, pan-roasted asparagus is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it's also quick and easy to make. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a low-carb, savory, and well-balanced dish that's packed with nutrients.
Let's get started!
Ingredients
To make this tasty side dish, you'll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- Asparagus. Choose fresh asparagus that is fresh, bright green, firm, and should look freshly cut. It's even better if it's straight out of the garden!
- Butter. Adds richness and a subtle creamy flavor. You can use either salted or unsalted butter.
- Olive oil. Olive oil contains heart-healthy fats but any cooking oil you have on hand can be used in this recipe.
- Lemon. Adds a burst of brightness that compliments the flavors of this dish. It's optional but highly recommended!
- Salt and pepper.
Step-by-step instructions
Begin this recipe by preparing the asparagus. Wash the spears under cold water and trim the woody, tough ends.
Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter and swirl them around to coat the pan evenly.
Once the butter is melted, carefully place half of the asparagus spears pointing in one direction, and the other half pointing in the opposite direction. Make sure they are spread out so they cook evenly.
Cover the pan and cook the asparagus until it's bright green and still crisp. This should take around 5 minutes.
Uncover the pan, increase the heat to high, and season with salt and pepper. Cook the asparagus until it's tender and browned on one side (about 5 to 7 minutes).
Transfer to a serving platter and serve.
For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus.
Tips & tricks
Trim the asparagus. Easily snap off the woody ends by gently bending the spear until it naturally breaks.
Avoid overcrowding. Try to get the spears spread into a single layer. Crowding the pan could result in the spears being steamed instead of seared.
Don't overcook the asparagus. Be mindful not to overcook your asparagus, as the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the spears.
Recommended tools
- Skillet. I like to use this 12-inch cast iron skillet for this recipe. The spears fit perfectly!
- Silicone tongs. Flip, turn, and serve up pan-fried asparagus with heat-resistant tongs.
- Lemon-juicer. Easily add fresh lemon juice with this handy-dandy lemon juicer!
- Utility knife. Quickly cut the woody ends off with my favorite paring knife.
Storing & Reheating
After the asparagus has cooled down, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. For optimal freshness, use within 2 to 3 days.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat them to preserve the texture and flavor. Warm the spears in a skillet over low heat or briefly microwave it. Just be sure to avoid overcooking them!
More sides
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Recipe
Pan-Fried Asparagus
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 lb asparagus trimmed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a 12-inch skillet, heat butter and oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the butter has melted, place half of the asparagus spears pointing in one direction, and the other half pointing in the opposite direction.
- Cover and cook the asparagus until it's bright green and still crisp (about 5 minutes).
- Uncover the pan, increase the heat to high, and season with salt and pepper. Cook the asparagus until it is tender and browned on one side, 5 to 7 minutes.
- Transfer to a platter, sprinkle with lemon juice, and serve.
Nutritional Disclaimer
The nutritional information provided is only an estimate. For accurate results, we recommend calculating the nutritional information based on the ingredients and brands you use.
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