Garlic-Butter Asparagus with Crispy Shallots
Ingredients
- 1½ poundsasparagus
- 3 mediumshallots
- 4 clovesgarlic
- 4 tablespoonbutter
- 2 tablespoonolive oil
- ·salt
- ·black pepper
- 1 wholelemon
Prep
- 01
Trim the woody ends (about 2 inches) from the asparagus spears and rinse well.
- 02
Slice 3 medium shallots into thin rings.
- 03
Mince 4 cloves garlic.
Method
- 01
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 02
Add the sliced shallots and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- 03
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 04
Add the asparagus in a single layer. Spread the minced garlic over it and season generously with salt and pepper. Do not stir.
- 05
Cook for 4-6 minutes without moving the asparagus, until the bottoms are charred and tender-crisp when pierced with a fork.
- 06
Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the asparagus and toss gently. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- 07
Transfer to a serving plate and scatter the crispy shallots over the top. Serve warm.
Spice Tips
For warmth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the garlic. For depth, finish with a small pinch of smoked paprika or a grating of Parmesan cheese.
This recipe works best with medium-to-thick asparagus spears; thin ones may overcook. For a protein boost, serve alongside grilled chicken or salmon.