Cook rice in a saucepan according to package directions.
While rice is cooking, wash and trim asparagus spears.
Be sure to remove tough, woody base of spears by snapping this part off, or peeling with a vegetable peeler.
When rice is removed from heat, put prepared asparagus spears on top of cooked rice in pan.
Immediately replace pot cover. Let sit for about 5 minutes.
Add salt, pepper, a bit of butter, and/or olive oil as desired.
Serve immediately.