MICRO-STEAMED
ASPARAGUS
WITH HOLLANDAISE OR
MAYONNAISE
NOTE: Hot asparagus and hollandaise are a natural pair,
as are cold asparagus and hollandaise’s colder cousin,
mayonnaise. That said, if you want to make matters even
simpler, a bit of compound butter (here) melted over hot
spears makes a fine side dish: even a simple drizzle of
extra-virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon will do.
SERVES 2 OR 3
8 ounces asparagus, bottom 1½ inches trimmed off, stalks
peeled if desired
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 Foolproof Hollandaise Sauce (here) or Foolproof
Homemade Mayonnaise (here), for serving
- Place the asparagus in an even layer on a large
microwave-safe plate and season with salt and pepper.
Lay a triple layer of damp paper towels on top of the
asparagus, completely covering them, or cover with a
clean damp kitchen towel. Microwave on high power
until the asparagus is bright green and tender but still
crisp, 2½ to 6 minutes, depending on the power of your