Asparagus With Toasted Sesame Aioli

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Here's a great appetizer for springtime entertaining. The bold, toasty sesame oil adds depth to the classic garlic-lemon sauce. Arrange the crisp-tender asparagus spears, tips up, in a tall, clear glass, with the sesame sauce nearby, served in a radicchio leaf cup to add color. The asparagus can be cooked up to 1 day in advance. The sauce will keep for up to 1 week in a covered container in the refrigerator. Bring both to room temperature for serving.

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Steps

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Steam the asparagus in a covered steamer over boiling water until crisp-tender , about 4 minutes.

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Or , put the asparagus in a microwave-proof dish.

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Add about 2 tablespoons water.

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Cover tightly and microwave on high for about 3 minutes , or until crisp-tender.

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Drain well.

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Rinse with cold water and drain again.

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Meanwhile , make the aioli:.

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Stir together all the aioli ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.

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To serve , arrange the asparagus spears in a tall , clear glass container.

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Spoon the sauce into a radicchio leaf or small dish , garnish with sesame seeds , and place nearby for dipping.

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Ingredients

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asparagus spears, mayonnaise, dark sesame oil, soy sauce, fresh lemon juice, toasted sesame seeds, fresh ginger, garlic clove, radicchio