Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus is a fast and easy side dish perfect for weeknight dinners and holiday feasts. Everything you need (except the asparagus) is probably already in your fridge! Check out my tips for picking out perfect asparagus in the store (bottom of recipe).
Trim the root ends from the asparagus spears about 1” or enough to remove any white part.
Heat butter and garlic in a large skillet over medium high heat just until the garlic starts to turn light brown.
Add the trimmed asparagus, water, salt and pepper. Toss with tongs or spatula occasionally. Cook 4-6 minutes until the asparagus is just tender with the smallest crunch and the pan is starting to go dry.
Taste for salt and pepper and serve hot.
Notes
How to Choose Asparagus: In the store look for spears of asparagus that are about the width of a pencil or at the largest a narrow sharpie. Choose a bundle that has firm green tips and is not slimy. The asparagus should look fresh and nice.