Steamer Instructions (see notes if using a pan or microwave)
Fill the bottom pot of your steamer set with a couple of inches of hot water. Set it on the stove, covered, over high heat to bring it to a boil.
While the water is heating, rinse the asparagus and cut off the bottom two inches (or the part that seems tough). Add the asparagus to the steamer basket.
When the water is boiling, place the steamer basket on top of the boiling pot and cover the steamer basket with a lid. Steam the asparagus for 10 minutes, or until it is cooked to your liking. Test it by piercing one with a fork and tasting it.
Tarragon Butter
When the asparagus is almost done cooking, place the butter in a small, microwave-safe bowl and cover it with wax paper. Melt the butter in the microwave. Rub the tarragon between your thumb and fingers to crush it up a bit, and sprinkle it into the melted butter. Add the pepper and stir to blend.
Serve the asparagus in a platter with the bowl of tarragon butter on the side. Each person can spoon some tarragon butter over his or her portion. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Notes
Pan-Steamed AsparagusIf you don't have a steamer, you can add an inch of hot water to a large skillet and bring it to a boil. Add the asparagus to the pan and cook until it is just tender.Microwave-Steamed AsparagusYou can use the microwave to steam asparagus, but it's best to use thin ones so they cook faster.Trim the asparagus, rinse it and place the wet stalks in a glass pan (or a microwave-safe bowl where they can lay flat). Add a tablespoon of water.Cover with wax paper or a microwave-safe plate and heat for three minutes on high. Wearing oven gloves, check for doneness and heat longer if needed.