Asparagus Garlic Skillet: A Simple, Flavorful Side Dish
This Asparagus Garlic Skillet recipe is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful side dish perfect for any weeknight meal or special occasion. It's packed with the bright, fresh taste of asparagus and the pungent aroma of garlic, all cooked to perfection in a single skillet for minimal cleanup. This recipe is also highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your liking with various seasonings and additions.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or more, to taste!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat, lemon juice for brightness, Parmesan cheese for richness
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Prep your asparagus: Wash and trim the asparagus, removing the tough bottom ends. You can snap them off easily by bending the stalk until it breaks naturally. Aim for roughly 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
Cooking the Asparagus:
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Heat the oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic.
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Sauté the garlic: Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can be bitter.
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Add the asparagus: Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet. Stir to coat the asparagus spears evenly with the garlic-infused olive oil.
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Cook until tender-crisp: Cook the asparagus for 5-7 minutes, or until it's bright green and tender-crisp but still retains a slight bite. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Seasoning and Serving:
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Season generously: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using red pepper flakes, add them now.
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Optional additions: For extra flavor, consider a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese after cooking.
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Serve immediately: This Asparagus Garlic Skillet is best served hot, as a side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or chicken. It also pairs beautifully with pasta dishes or roasted vegetables.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use butter instead of, or in addition to, olive oil.
- Add some protein: Sauté some shrimp or chicken with the asparagus for a more substantial meal.
- Get creative with herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve over quinoa or rice for a complete and satisfying dish.
Why This Recipe is Great:
- Quick and easy: This recipe is ready in under 15 minutes.
- Healthy and nutritious: Asparagus is packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Versatile and adaptable: Customize it to your liking with different seasonings and additions.
- Minimal cleanup: Everything cooks in one skillet!
This simple yet delicious Asparagus Garlic Skillet recipe is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy!
