Grab a big bunch of fresh asparagus and heat up the skillet! This is a super simple and quick recipe that produces the most flavorful, perfectly crispy Garlic Asparagus with Sesame Seeds. It’s an incredible springtime side dish, and would be a wonderful addition to both Passover and Easter holiday tables!

Asparagus is in season from February to June, but it’s best in April, making it a springtime favorite! My whole family loves asparagus, and when I cook it with fresh garlic and add a sprinkle of sesame seeds it absolutely shines. I am not joking when I say I DREAM about this recipe! It is so fresh, flavorful, and filled with nutrients. Plus, it is so easy and only requires one skillet on your stovetop. No blanching the asparagus in advance. I hope you make and love this Garlic Asparagus with Sesame Seeds this season…I know I will!

Health Benefits of Asparagus

Asparagus is a nutrient-packed vegetable offering an excellent source of vitamin A which is important for eye, skin and immune health.  It also provides an excellent source of vitamin K which supports bone health.  It is rich in heart healthy fiber and essential nutrients such as folate, vitamin C and E.

Selecting and Storing Asparagus

When selecting asparagus look for bright green (or violet-tinged) spears that are firm (not limp). The stalks should have tight, closed, compact, pointed tips. If you see open, wilted or shriveled tips that means it is past its prime. You can look for thick, medium or thin stalks.  All sizes are fine and do not indicate the quality. It is best to eat asparagus as soon after buying as possible.  If you cannot, cut half an inch from the bottom of the stalks and wrap the bottom of the spears in a wet paper towel. You can also place them in a dish with about an inch of cold water standing upright (like flowers!). Either way, store them in your refrigerator with a plastic bag covering the ends for two to three days.

What is the Best Way to Cook Asparagus?

Lately I have been loving my cast iron skillet! I know lots of home chefs are intimidated by the maintenance of cast iron, but it’s easier than you’re thinking and so worth it for the flavorful, perfectly-cooked results you’ll get. I even have a cast iron highlight on my Instagram detailing how I maintain my skillets!

All About Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds add beautiful texture and great flavor to this Garlic Asparagus recipe! Sesame seeds are a great source of fiber, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, iron, calcium, plant-based protein. They also have vitamin B and antioxidants galore.

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Garlic Asparagus with Sesame Seeds

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5 from 1 reviews

• Author: Elaine Gordon
• Prep Time: 3
• Cook Time: 12
• Total Time: 15
• Yield: 4 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

Grab a big bunch of fresh asparagus and heat up the skillet! This is a super simple and quick recipe that produces the most flavorful, perfectly crispy Garlic Asparagus with Sesame Seeds. It’s an incredible springtime side dish, and would be a wonderful addition to both Passover and Easter holiday tables!

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Ingredients

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• 12 ounces asparagus (1 large bundle), tough, woody ends removed
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 large cloves garlic, very thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Preheat a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat.  Once hot, add asparagus, oil, salt and pepper.  Saute over medium heat for five minutes tossing every minute or so.  
2. Add garlic slices and saute another five minutes over low heat tossing every minute or so.
3. Add sesame seeds and saute for two more minutes over low heat.  
4. Once asparagus is fork tender remove from skillet and serve immediately.  

Equipment

12-inch cast iron skillet

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Notes

Asparagus will continue to cook once removed from heat so I like to cook them al dente for best results.  

• Category: Side
• Method: Stovetop

Keywords: garlic asparagus