Parmesan-Lemon Asparagus

• 1 lb. asparagus
• 6 T. butter, at room temperature
• 1/4 c. Parmesan cheese
• 2 T. lemon juice
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 1 tsp. dried basil

Clean and precook (steam, boil or microwave) the asparagus just until crisp-tender. Drain it and arrange the spears in a broiler-safe casserole dish.

While the asparagus is precooking, beat the butter until creamy and add the rest of the ingredients, whipping the mixture until all of the ingredients are incorporated well. Spread the butter mixture over the asparagus in the casserole dish, leaving the tips and about 1 inch of the ends exposed. Broil in the oven just until the topping is golden. Serve hot.

• Yields: 4 servings
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes