Ingredients

½lbasparagus

¼tspsalt

1clovegarlic,cut in half, optional

1strip of lemon peel,optional

Preparation

Snap or cut off any woody bottoms of the asparagus spears. If working with medium or large asparagus, a vegetable peeler can be used to peel the outside of the lower inch or two of the asparagus.

Fill a large, wide skillet with about ¾-inch of water. Add salt. Add the cut garlic and lemon peel if using. Bring the water to a boil on high heat.

Add the asparagus in an even layer. If the water doesn’t cover the asparagus, cover the pan. If using thin asparagus, cook only for 1 to 2 minutes. Medium asparagus, 5 minutes. Large asparagus 6 to 7 minutes.

Rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking and then transfer to a serving dish.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper, lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil or butter to serve.