*To toast sesame seeds, put them in a small skillet and heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and just golden. Watch carefully. Break off any woody parts of the asparagus stalks. Bring lightly salted water to boil in a medium skillet, add asparagus and cook for 5 minutes or just until tender-crisp. Immerse asparagus in ice-water to stop the cooking action. Pat dry and arrange on a platter. In a blender, combine the dressing ingredients and blend until thoroughly combined. Pour dressing evenly over asparagus and serve. Makes 1/3 cup. From 1993 "Shepherd's Garden Seeds Catalog," pg. 4.