American Easy

Pan-Roasted Asparagus

Name: Pan-Roasted Asparagus
Prep time: PT5MINUTES
Cook time: PT15MINUTES
Total time: PT20MINUTES
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 lb thick asparagus (trimmed, at least 1/2 inch thick); to taste salt; to taste pepper; 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

Stovetop roasting for crisp-tender spears with deep caramelization

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— (0 ratings)

⏱️ 20 minutes 5 minutes prep · 15 minutes cook

🍽️ 6 Serves

75 Calories

3g Protein

5g Carbs

6g Fat

Why This Recipe Works

This stovetop method uses a quick steam under a lid to ensure even cooking before browning the spears on high heat. Focus on browning just one side to maintain a crisp-tender texture and a bright green color without the risk of overcooking.

Instructions

Melt the butter with the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until the butter foam subsides.

💡 The oil prevents the butter from burning during the higher-heat browning phase.

Add the asparagus, salt, and pepper to the skillet and toss to coat the spears evenly. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer.

Cover the skillet tightly and cook until the asparagus is bright green and just starting to tenderize, about 5 minutes.

Remove the lid and increase the heat to high. Cook without moving the spears until the bottom sides are well-browned and the spears are tender, 5 to 7 minutes.

💡 Browning only one side preserves the texture and prevents the asparagus from becoming limp.

Off the heat, drizzle with lemon juice if using, and serve immediately while hot.