pan fried asparagus recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best pan fried asparagus recipe

I’ve always been a fan of asparagus, and when I discovered the simplicity of pan-frying it, I was hooked. This recipe is a staple in my household, and my family loves it just as much as I do.

It’s a perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special Sunday meal. The key to this recipe is in the technique – by cooking the asparagus in a hot skillet with some oil and seasoning, you get a deliciously tender and flavorful result that’s hard to resist.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even on busy nights when time is scarce.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, and each time I’m reminded of why it’s a favorite – it’s just so darn good! The asparagus is tender but still crisp, the flavors are balanced and bright, and the whole thing comes together in just a few minutes.

My kids love helping me cook this dish, too – they’re always excited to get involved with the simple prep work and then enjoy the fruits of our labor together. As for me, I love how versatile this recipe is – we can serve it as a side dish, add it to salads or pasta bowls for extra flavor and nutrition, or even use it as a topping for tacos or eggs.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – asparagus is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for families looking to eat more wholesome meals. So if you’re looking for a simple yet impressive side dish that everyone will love, give this pan-fried asparagus recipe a try!

Pan Fried Asparagus

4.8 from 712 votes

This pan fried asparagus recipe delivers tender-crisp spears with a lightly charred exterior. It is a quick and simple side dish that pairs well with any main course.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time8 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time13 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 80 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Asparagus

1 lb fresh asparagus, woody ends trimmed
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel.
2Trim off the woody ends by snapping each spear near the base where it naturally breaks, about 1 to 2 inches from the bottom.
3Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, swirling to coat the bottom.
4Once the oil shimmers, add the asparagus spears in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded for even cooking.
5Cook the asparagus for 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs, until they are bright green and lightly charred in spots.
6The spears should be tender when pierced with a fork but still crisp, indicating they are done.
7Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the asparagus, and add the minced garlic if using, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
8Remove the pan from heat and drizzle with lemon juice if desired, then transfer to a serving plate.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or frying pan
Tongs
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 80 kcal🧈Total Fat: 7g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 300mg🌾Total Carbs: 4g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

For best results, choose asparagus spears of similar thickness to ensure even cooking. Do not overcook as they can become mushy; aim for a tender-crisp texture.

Watch Video Of How Pan Fried Asparagus Works

One of my favorite things about this pan-fried asparagus recipe is how easily it reheats – simply reheat any leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop until crispy again.

We often have leftover spears that we store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days – they’re perfect for adding to salads or pasta dishes later in the week.

When serving this dish at family gatherings or holiday meals, consider garnishing with some fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add an extra pop of color and freshness.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pan Fried Asparagus

Q: What type of oil should I use for pan-frying?

A: You can use any neutral-tasting oil like canola or grapeseed oil for pan-frying. Olive oil works too but keep in mind its distinct flavor may alter the taste of your dish.

Q: How long should I cook the asparagus?

A: Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your asparagus spears. Thinner ones usually take 3-5 minutes per side while thicker ones may require up to 7 minutes per side.

Q: Can I add garlic or other seasonings?

A: Yes, you can definitely add garlic or other seasonings like lemon juice or zest to enhance the flavor of your pan-fried asparagus.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and makes an excellent option for those looking for meatless meals.

Q: Can I use frozen or pre-cut asparagus?

A: While fresh is always best, you can use frozen or pre-cut asparagus in a pinch. Just thaw or pat dry before cooking.

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