Orange-Glazed Asparagus

[vegelady]

     Ingredients:


     3 bunches medium-thick asparagus, tough ends snapped off
     1/2 teaspoon salt
     2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
     1/2 cup orange juice
     Zest of a large orange (optional)



     Directions:


     1. Toss asparagus with salt. Arrange in a large (12-inch) skillet with a lid. Add oil and juice to skillet and cover.
        (The asparagus can be set up a few hours ahead.)

     2. About 10 minutes before serving time, turn burner on high. When asparagus starts to steam, set timer for 4 minutes.
        Cook until tender, checking at 4 minutes with the tip of a sharp knife.

     3. Transfer cooked asparagus to a serving dish. Add optional zest to skillet and continue to cook until pan juices reduce to a glaze
         consistency, 2-3 minutes longer. Pour over asparagus and serve.