Chilled Asparagus With Lemony Garlic Dressing

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons low-fat sour cream or nonfat sour cream
• 1 tablespoon low-fat buttermilk or skim milk
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1-2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 24 fresh asparagus spears, woody bases removed
• poppy seed (optional)

Directions

1. 1

   In a small bowl, mix together first five ingredients until smooth.

2. 2

   Cover and chill until serving time.

3. 3

   Boil asparagus for 5 minutes (until crisp-tender).

4. 4

   Drain (I've served this dish hot by tossing the asparagus in the pan with the dressing and heating for 1-2 minutes at this point).

5. 5

   Rinse with cold water and drain again.

6. 6

   Cover and chill until serving time.

7. 7

   To serve, gently toss asparagus spears with dressing.

8. 8

   Sprinkle lightly with poppy seeds, if desired.