Asparagus with Parmesan Butter

By: Susan Vanderhoeven

Time: 15-20 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed
• 3 tablespoons butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (packed) grated Parmesan cheese (about 2 1/2 ounces)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried
• 1 large garlic clove, chopped
• 1 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Directions:

Cook asparagus in large pot of boiling salted water until just crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Drain well. Arrange asparagus on a broiler proof platter. Preheat broiler. Beat butter in medium bowl until fluffy. Beat in cheese, basil, garlic and lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Drop butter mixture by teaspoonfuls over asparagus. Broil asparagus until topping browns, watching closely to avoid burning, about 3 minutes. Serve hot.

Note: Parmesan cheese can be cut in half if you're watching your waistline!