Broiling the asparagus intensifies its natural flavor and sweetness, and the toasted sesame oil adds a subtle nuttiness. You can serve this dish warm or at room temperature, making it a natural for a buffet.

　　

Ingredients

serves 4, 4 to 5 spears per serving

　　Cooking spray

　　1 pound fresh asparagus (16 to 20 medium spears), trimmed and patted completely dry

　　2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

　　1/8 teaspoon salt

　　

Step 1

Preheat the broiler. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly spray the foil with cooking spray.

　　

Step 2

Place the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. Lightly spray the asparagus with cooking spray.

　　

Step 3

Broil about 4 inches from the heat for 4 minutes, or just until the asparagus is tender-crisp and a few brown spots appear. Remove from the broiler.

　　

Step 4

Using a pastry brush, brush the sesame oil over the asparagus. Sprinkle with the salt.

　　

Cook’s Tip on Asparagus

Step 5

To trim asparagus, hold the cut end of a spear. Bend the spear gently until you feel where the tough part begins, often about 1 inch from the bottom. Snap the spear at that point, discarding the woody end. A rule of thumb is that the thinner the asparagus, the tenderer it will be. If you peel the thicker stalks, they’ll also be tender. Be sure to pat the asparagus completely dry after you clean it so it will roast properly.

　　

nutrition information

Step 6

(Per Serving)

　　

Step 7

Calories: 41

　　

Step 8

Total Fat: 2.5g

　　

Step 9

Saturated: 0.5g

　　

Step 10

Trans: 0.0g

　　

Step 11

Polyunsaturated: 1.0g

　　

Step 12

Monounsaturated: 1.0g

　　

Step 13

Cholesterol: 0mg

　　

Step 14

Sodium: 73mg

　　

Step 15

Carbohydrates: 4g

　　

Step 16

Fiber: 2g

　　

Step 17

Sugars: 2g

　　

Step 18

Protein: 2g

　　

Step 19

Dietary Exchanges

　　

Step 20

1 Vegetable

　　

Step 21

1/2 Fat

　　American Heart Association Quick & Easy Meals