Description
This simple roasted asparagus recipe delivers tender stalks with a slight crisp and delightful flavor from garlic and optional lemon and parmesan finishes. Perfect as a quick, healthy side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 500 g asparagus (1 lb, about 3 bunches)
- 1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
Optional Finishes
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 220°C (430°F), or 200°C (fan assisted) to prepare for roasting.
- Prepare Asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus; they will naturally break at the perfect point to discard the tough sections.
- Toss with Seasonings: Place asparagus on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Toss everything together to coat evenly, then spread the asparagus out in a single layer on the tray.
- Roast Asparagus: Roast in the preheated oven for 7 minutes for thin stalks, or up to 12 minutes for very thick asparagus, until the ends start to brown slightly and the stalks are tender but not wrinkled.
- Finish and Serve: Remove asparagus from the oven, toss with lemon juice if using, transfer to a serving platter, and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan for an optional cheesy finish. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For thicker asparagus, increase roasting time up to 12 minutes to ensure tenderness.
- Do not overcook asparagus to avoid a mushy texture; look for slight browning and firm stalks.
- Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor but is optional based on preference.
- Parmesan adds a savory touch; substitute with vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Use a rimmed baking tray to avoid oil spills in the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
