Serves 4 / Chilled asparagus blanketed in a creamy sauce—the perfect start to a summer meal. Serving tip: Set out as an appetizer with more blanched vegetables, or accompany with dishes of black olives, cubed feta cheese, fresh figs, and toasted nuts.

1 pound fresh asparagus spears, washed and trimmed

1/4 cup tahini

2 cloves garlic, crushed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon agave nectar

Juice of 1 large lemon

Cayenne pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon black sesame seeds, for garnish

1. In a large pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil. Blanch asparagus spears for 2–3 minutes, depending on thickness, or until crisp-tender. Drain and immediately immerse in ice water. When cold, drain well and set aside.

2. In a small bowl, combine tahini, garlic, olive oil, and agave; blend well. Slowly whisk in lemon juice until emulsified. If desired, thin with up to 1 tablespoon water. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. (Makes 1/2 cup.) Transfer to a small serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Arrange asparagus on a serving dish or on individual plates, and serve with sauce on the side.

PER SERVING: 182 cal, 66% fat cal, 15g fat, 2g sat fat, 0mg chol, 5g protein, 11g carb, 4g fiber, 14mg sodium