Pan-Roasted Asparagus with Sesame-Lime Dressing
- Makes4 servings
- Cook Time15 minutes
In this quick and easy method for basic pan-roasted asparagus, an initial blast over high heat gives the spears a light char to develop sweet, nutty flavor, then covered cooking with a little water renders the spears perfectly crisp-tender. Serve the asparagus unadorned straight from the pan, or add any one of the following embellishments to dress it up. You will need a 12-inch skillet with a lid for this recipe.
Don't use extra-thick asparagus, as it requires longer cooking. Look for spears that are no larger than ½ inch in diameter. But don't use ultra-thin asparagus, either, which will end up overdone.
Step 1
In a small bowl, stir together 3 tablespoons lime juiceand 1 medium shallot(minced). Set aside, then prepare pan-roasted asparagus.
Step 2
After transferring the asparagus to a platter, to the lime juice–shallot mixture, stir in 1 teaspoon grated lime zest, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 2 teaspoons honey, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Drizzle over the asparagus, then sprinkle with 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds.
