Spicy Asparagus with Garlic

Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Servings: 4
Yield: 4 servings

Description

Asparagus is paired with fresh garlic, Kalamata olives, and red pepper flakes for a quick, easy, and spicy side dish.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 tablespoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
6 medium Kalamata olives, sliced
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 medium lemon, cut into wedges

Directions

1 Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add asparagus and blanch until the asparagus turns a vibrant green, about 1 minute. Transfer asparagus to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Remove asparagus from the ice bath, drain, and set aside.
2 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring constantly, just until it becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds. Season with pepper flakes, add asparagus, and quickly toss in the seasoned oil. Heat until asparagus is just crisp-tender, not overly soft, 1 to 2 minutes.
3 Stir in olives and season with salt and pepper. Serve with lemon wedges.