Instructions: Wash asparagus, removing with knife, scales that hold sand and grit. Lay 2 or 3 asparagus stalks together on cutting board. With sharp knife, cut on very long, slanting diagonal to end of green length of stalk, making bias slices not more than 1/4" thick and 1 1/2" long.

Put butter and water in large skillet with tight cover; heat.

Add asparagus, salt, and pepper. Cook, covered, over high heat 5 minutes, shaking skillet occasionally and checking once to see whether a bit more water is needed.

Test asparagus with fork; if not tender-crisp, cook 1 minute more.

Uncover at once, serve quickly.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.