Springtime Asparagus

Celebrate the season with this vibrant and easy-to-make 'Springtime Asparagus' recipe, a perfect side dish that showcases the best of fresh asparagus! Pan-sautéed to tender-crisp perfection and infused with the zesty brightness of lemon juice and zest, this dish is elevated further with the savory depth of garlic and a sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 20 minutes, this springtime favorite combines simplicity and elegance, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. A finishing touch of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while the drizzle of olive oil ties it all together. Whether served alongside roasted salmon or a hearty pasta, this dish is the epitome of seasonal eating and a must-try for asparagus lovers.

Nutriscore Rating: 79/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Wash the asparagus spears thoroughly and trim off the woody ends (about 1-2 inches from the bottom of each spear).

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4

Place the asparagus spears in the skillet, arranging them in a single layer if possible. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, occasionally turning them with tongs, until the asparagus is tender-crisp and slightly browned on the edges.

Step 5

Sprinkle the lemon zest over the asparagus and drizzle with lemon juice. Toss the asparagus gently to coat.

Step 6

Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.

Step 7

Transfer the asparagus to a serving platter and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 8

Garnish with chopped parsley (if using) and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(519.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	401.7

Total Fat 31.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 8mg	0%
Sodium 1344.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 22.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.3g	0%
Total Sugars 6.9g
Protein 14.2g	0%

Vitamin D 4IU	0%
Calcium 239.1mg	0%
Iron 7.6mg	0%
Potassium 997.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 66.1%

Protein: 13.2%

Carbs: 20.7%