Place the steamed asparagus into a baking pan and drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the spears. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Broil on high for 5 minutes or until the spears show the slightest bit of browning.
Remove from the oven and eat immediately.
Notes
Select Fresh and Tender Asparagus: When buying asparagus, look for firm, straight spears with tightly closed tips. Avoid asparagus that appears wilted, limp, or has yellowing stems. Fresh and tender asparagus will have a vibrant green color and a crisp texture, which enhances the flavor and appearance of the dish.
Adjust Seasonings to Taste: While the recipe suggests using salt and garlic pepper to season the asparagus, feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your preference. Taste the marinade mixture of olive oil and balsamic vinegar before drizzling it over the asparagus, and adjust the amount of salt and pepper accordingly. You can also experiment with adding other herbs and spices, such as minced garlic, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
Watch Carefully While Broiling: Broiling can quickly char the surface of the asparagus, so it's essential to keep a close eye on the spears while they are under the broiler. Set a timer for 5 minutes, but be prepared to remove the asparagus from the oven earlier if they start to brown too quickly. The goal is to achieve a slight browning on the spears while still retaining their crisp texture. Once the asparagus shows the slightest bit of browning, remove them from the oven immediately to prevent overcooking.