Asparagus With Toasted Sesame Aioli - cooking recipe

Ingredients

16 medium-thick asparagus spears (about 12 ounces, trimmed to even lengths)
Toasted Sesame Aioli
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon dark sesame oil (Asian)
2 teaspoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
1/2 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
1 garlic clove, minced
1 leaf radicchio (optional)
toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Preparation

Steam the asparagus in a covered steamer over boiling water until crisp-tender, about 4 minutes.
Or, put the asparagus in a microwave-proof dish; add about 2 tablespoons water.
Cover tightly and microwave on high for about 3 minutes, or until crisp-tender.
Drain well.
Rinse with cold water and drain again.
Meanwhile, make the aioli:
Stir together all the aioli ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
To serve, arrange the asparagus spears in a tall, clear glass container. Spoon the sauce into a radicchio leaf or small dish, garnish with sesame seeds, and place nearby for dipping.