Description
Pan Fried Asparagus is a quick, flavorful side dish featuring tender-crisp asparagus sautéed in a rich buttery garlic glaze. Ready in about 13 minutes, it pairs beautifully with chicken, steak, seafood, or eggs for brunch. This stovetop method delivers lightly golden spears, a garlicky aroma, and a hint of lemon and optional Parmesan—irresistible yet simple. Versatile and easy to customize with chili flakes, extra lemon, or cheese to taste.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil, allowing the butter to melt completely.
- Add the trimmed asparagus in a single layer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp and lightly golden.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving if desired.
Notes
- Use a large skillet to ensure a single layer for even cooking.
- Keep heat at medium to avoid burning; adjust as needed.
- Parmesan and lemon juice are optional and can be added at the end for extra brightness.
- Red pepper flakes add a subtle kick—omit for a milder side.
- Can be prepared dairy-free by using olive oil and skipping butter and cheese.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 115
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 23 mg
Keywords: Pan Fried Asparagus, pan fried asparagus recipe, garlic butter asparagus, asparagus side dish, easy asparagus, weeknight side, lemon garlic asparagus