Asian Sautéed Asparagus – Quick & Flavorful Side Dish
Craving a vegetable side dish that’s bursting with flavor and comes together in minutes?
Look no further than this vibrant Asian Sautéed Asparagus.
This recipe transforms simple asparagus into a bold, umami-rich dish with a satisfying crunch.
Perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for a dinner party, this dish strikes a beautiful balance between savory, sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your asparagus and add a global flair to your meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, ends trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 tsp honey (or agave syrup for vegan)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp peanuts, crushed, for garnish
- 1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Sliced green onion, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Asparagus: Wash, dry, and trim off woody ends.
- Make the Glaze: Whisk soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, ginger, honey, and red pepper flakes.
- Sauté: Heat oil in a skillet. Cook asparagus 2–3 minutes without moving, then stir and cook 4–5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Glaze & Serve: Lower heat, add glaze, toss for 30 seconds, then garnish with peanuts, sesame seeds, and green onions.
Chef’s Notes & Tips
- Choosing Asparagus: Medium-thick stalks work best for sautéing.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook in batches to avoid steaming.
- Maximize Flavor: Toast peanuts before garnishing.
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas, tofu, or chicken for a full meal.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Best served immediately, but the sauce can be prepped 3 days ahead.
How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.
Can I use other nuts?
Yes! Try cashews or almonds for a different twist.
