Steamed Asparagus with Olive Butter

If you love olives, try this combination of flavors to liven up simple steamed asparagus. Butter, garlic, lemon juice, and olives give great flavor and take asparagus to the next level.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 0.25 cup unsalted butter
• 0.5 teaspoon minced garlic
• 4 pimento-stuffed green olives, sliced
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 pinch salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 0.5 teaspoon lemon zest

Steps

1. Place a steamer insert into a saucepan and fill with water to just below the bottom of the steamer. Bring water to a boil. Add asparagus cover, and steam until desired tenderness is achieved, 6 to 9 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add garlic and heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in olives and lemon juice; heat thoroughly, but do not boil, 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.
3. Place steamed asparagus in a serving dish and pour sauce on top. Garnish with lemon zest and serve warm.