Pan Fried Asparagus

why make this recipe

Pan Fried Asparagus is fast, fresh, and full of flavor. You get a bright green side dish in minutes. It pairs well with many main dishes and helps add vegetables to any meal. If you like simple sides, try this after easy fried rice for a quick dinner.

introduction

This recipe uses just a few ingredients and a hot pan. The asparagus cooks quickly and keeps a nice bite. You can make it any night when you want a healthy, tasty side that takes little time.

how to make Pan Fried Asparagus

1. Trim the woody ends of the asparagus.
2. Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the asparagus and cook 4–5 minutes, stirring now and then, until tender and bright green.
4. Add minced garlic and cook 1–2 minutes more until you smell the garlic.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm with lemon wedges if you like.

Ingredients :

• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Directions :

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and bright green.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm with lemon wedges if desired.

how to serve Pan Fried Asparagus

Serve warm right from the pan. Squeeze lemon over the top for a fresh taste. It goes well with fish, chicken, steak, or rice dishes. For a small meal, add a slice of toasted bread and a protein.

how to store Pan Fried Asparagus

Let the asparagus cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave for a short time. Do not freeze; asparagus gets soft when frozen.

tips to make Pan Fried Asparagus

• Use fresh asparagus that snaps when bent.
• Cut thicker stalks in half lengthwise if you want faster, even cooking.
• Do not crowd the pan; give the spears space to brown.
• Add garlic near the end to avoid burning it. You can serve with a sprinkle of lemon zest. Try it with fried snacks like fried mac and cheese bites for a fun side.

variation (if any)

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Finish with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
• Toss with toasted almonds or pine nuts for crunch.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen asparagus?
A: Fresh is best. Frozen asparagus can be softer and may release extra water when cooked.

Q: How do I know when asparagus is done?
A: It is bright green and tender when pierced with a fork but still slightly firm.

Q: Can I add other spices?
A: Yes. Black pepper, lemon pepper, or garlic powder all work well.

Q: What oil works best?
A: Olive oil gives good flavor. You can use avocado or vegetable oil if you prefer.

Conclusion

For a quick, healthy side, this pan fried asparagus is a great choice. For another simple pan vegetable idea, see the full Pan-Fried Asparagus Recipe.

Pan Fried Asparagus

A quick and healthy side dish featuring tender asparagus, garlic, and olive oil, perfect for complementing any main course.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 minutes mins

Total Time 12 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 70

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed Use fresh asparagus that snaps when bent.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil Olive oil gives good flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Add garlic near the end to avoid burning it.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional) Squeeze lemon for a fresh taste.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Trim the woody ends of the asparagus.
2. Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat.

Cooking

1. Add the asparagus and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and bright green.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm with lemon wedges, if desired.

Notes

Let the asparagus cool to room temperature before storing. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently. Avoid freezing as asparagus gets soft when frozen.