Asparagus spears, like high-zinc oysters, have centuries-long associations with love, so they make a perfect accompaniment to the Valentine dinner. This piquant recipe makes full, delicious use of asparagus, as well as several other ingredients that are traditional sensual, romantic foods.

Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

1 pound fresh asparagus spears
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large garlic clove, finely chopped
2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
2 tablespoons tamari or shoyu (good-quality soy sauce)
toasted almonds (optional)

1. Wash and prepare asparagus by snapping off the ends (if you’re using very young, tender asparagus, you can omit this step).

2. Heat olive oil in skillet over medium high heat and saute garlic for 1 to 2 minutes. Add asparagus and cook, stirring often, until asparagus is crisp-tender. Remove asparagus to serving plate.

3. Add grated ginger and tamari to pan, stirring well, until heated through. Pour this sauce over asparagus, sprinkle with toasted almonds if you like, and serve.

Serves 4.