1. If you want to do it by the Italian method, you have to snap off the bottom piece of the asparagus instead of cutting it off; then you can tell right away if they are fresh. Put them in a pan with a good amount of butter. Season with salt and pepper. Pour in a splash of water and put a lid on the pan. Stew the asparagus gently over medium heat. Some will also turn light brown and be fried, which is just right.

2. Finely chop the garlic cloves. When the asparagus is almost done, add the garlic, flaked almonds and thyme. Let them sauté for a few more minutes so that the garlic is cooked and the flaked almonds turn light brown.

3. Serve the asparagus on a platter. Grate some of the Parmesan cheese on top.

4. Serve with some extra parmesan in a bowl for everyone to serve themselves at the table.