Sauteed Asparagus

Making an impressive main dish is hard work, so we’re partial to simple sides that pack a punch with little effort. This sauteed asparagus is crunchy, flavorful, and delightfully easy to make. All you need is a bunch of asparagus, oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. It’s almost too easy!

overhead view of sauteed asparagus in a frying pan with lemon wedges.

Here’s what you’ll need to make sauteed asparagus (psst: there are only 6 ingredients!):

Asparagus: Choose stalks that are firm to the touch and do not appear limp or wilted. The tips should be closed tightly.
Oil: Coats the asparagus to help it brown in the pan without burning. We like olive oil for the rich taste it imparts, but canola or vegetable will also work well.
Garlic: Adds a subtle earthy and savory flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Enhance the natural flavor of the asparagus.
Lemon: Adds a pop of brightness and freshness to the cooked asparagus.

What Else Can I Add?

This is a great recipe for playing with different seasoning blends. Try: nmn nbgy

Asparagus does not need to be cooked for long. Once it turns bright green from end to end, it’s done! In fact, it’s even better a little underdone. It should not be mushy or floppy in texture and appearance, it should hold its “spear” shape when cooked correctly.

WHat To Serve with Sauteed ASparagus

This sautéed asparagus is such a versatile side dish. It truly goes with everything! We love it served with Chicken Cordon Bleu, Garlic Butter Baked Cod, Glazed Pork Chops, or BBQ Ribs. Drizzle them with a little bit of Balsamic Glaze to really take them to the next level.

I served this asparagus with our Parmesan Risotto, and it made the ultimate fresh and delicious meal for my family.

This Sautéed Asparagus is crunchy, flavorful, and delightfully easy to make. It’s the perfect side for any meal.

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Cut off the woody ends of the asparagus.
Add oil to a large frying pan on medium high heat. Add asparagus and gently shake to cover each spear with oil. Add the salt and pepper and cook, shaking every so often, until asparagus turns bright green, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to pan and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Remove the asparagus and spritz with a squeeze of lemon juice. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking.

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Serving: 1servingCalories: 60kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 3gFat: 4gSodium: 584mgFiber: 3g

Read our full nutrition disclaimer here.

overhead view of sauteed asparagus on a plate with lemon wedges.

how to make Sautéed Asparagus – step by step photos

a bunch of asparagus with the ends trimmed off on a bamboo cutting board.

Cut off the woody ends of 1 bunch asparagus.

Add 1 Tbsp olive oil to a large frying pan on medium-high heat, then add the asparagus and gently shake to cover each spear with oil. Shake every so often, until asparagus turns bright green, about 5 minutes.