Sesame-Glazed Asparagus

This recipe combines the rich taste of sesame with lemon, accentuating the delicious flavor of asparagus. It is quick to make, making it good for any day of the week. A friend of mine from South Dakota said asparagus grows wild in the ditches there....almost makes me want to move from sunny Florida to cold South Dakota! This recipe originally came from a cookbook called "Savory Secrets: A Collection of St. Louis Recipes".

• Ready In: 17 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  lb fresh asparagus
• 6  green onions, cut diagonally into 1/4-inch pieces
• 1⁄4 cup butter or 1⁄4 cup margarine, melted
• 1 1⁄4 teaspoons lemon rind, grated
• 1  tablespoon lemon juice
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper, ground
• 1⁄8 teaspoon  red pepper, ground
• 1  tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
• 1  teaspoon  sesame oil
•  lemon slice
•  parsley sprig, fresh

Directions

1. Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus. Remove scales from stalks with a vegetable peeler, if desired.
2. Cut asparagus diagonally into 1-inch pieces.
3. Cook asparagus in boiling salted water to cover for 6 to 8 minutes or until crisp tender, drain. Run under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Cook the green onions in butter in a skillet over medium heat 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add asparagus, lemon rind, and juice; cook, stirring constantly, 2 minutes or until heated through.
6. Stir in salt and peppers. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and oil.
7. Garnish, if desired, with sliced lemon and parsley sprigs.