Fresh Asparagus with
Butter Pecan Sauce

• 1 pound medium asparagus
• salt and freshly ground pepper
• 3 Tablespoons water
• 1 stick butter
• 1/4 cup ground pecans
• 1 teaspoon tarragon vinegar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line up the asparagus in a covered casserole that will hold all of them in no more than 2 layers. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Add water and cover. Place in preheated oven for 15-17 minutes. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan. When it's hot, but not yet brown, add pecans. Stir a few seconds until they just turn color. Add vinegar, stirring once more and spoon over cooked asparagus. Serve immediately. Yield: 6 servings.