Barely Steamed Asparagus with Basil Vinaigrette

Directions

Start water boiling in your stovetop steamer or electric steamer. Trim off the woody ends of the asparagus, and then lightly peel the lower part of each stalk with a vegetable peeler. This allows you to use more of the asparagus than if you just break off the pieces, and it helps the stems cook as quickly as the asparagus tips. After peeling, cut each spear into pieces about 2 inches long, cutting on the diagonal. Steam asparagus until barely tender, being careful not to overcook. While asparagus steams, first combine fresh basil leaves and olive oil in food processor and process until basil is in very small pieces and fairly well integrated into olive oil. Remove puree, scraping sides of food processor. Then measure 6 T vinaigrette dressing and 2 T basil puree into food processor and pulse about one minute. To serve, drain asparagus well and arrange on plate. Season with salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste, and drizzle Basil Vinaigrette over. Enjoy!.