Set Instant Pot to saute. Add the butter and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until soft and fragrant. Add the salt, pepper and asparagus and give the mixture a stir. Pour the water over the top.
Place the cover on the pot and set timer to 0 minutes on low pressure (pressure cook setting). It will take the IP around 5 minutes to build up pressure before it begins cooking.
When cooking is done, do a quick release and allow the float valve to drop.
Transfer the asparagus to a serving dish, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and serve immediately!
Notes
Avoid using high pressure for this recipe or for any veggie that isn’t super sturdy. Using low pressure will prevent super-sogginess.
Feel free to use a steamer rack or steamer basket to put the asparagus in for cooking. When cook time is done, be sure to pour the garlic sauce over the top.
Add seasonings of choice to the garlic mixture when sauteing.
Butter and olive oil can be used interchangeably in this recipe.
Replace the water with chicken broth for an even more flavorful side dish.