Description
This easy roasted asparagus recipe delivers tender-crisp, flavorful spears in just 15 minutes. Toss fresh asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, then roast to perfection. Optional lemon juice and Parmesan add a bright, savory finish, making it a perfect healthy side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 bunch Fresh Asparagus (Medium-thick spears for best texture)
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with avocado oil)
- 3 cloves Minced Garlic (Adjust quantity based on taste preference)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Sea salt recommended)
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground adds depth)
Optional Additions
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice or Zest (Optional for added brightness)
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional, nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
Instructions
- Preparation Steps: Rinse fresh asparagus under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim off woody ends by snapping them off or cutting about an inch from the bottom. Pat the asparagus dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel.
- Preheat Oven and Season Asparagus: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) for optimal roasting. Arrange asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil evenly over spears, then sprinkle minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Roast Asparagus: Place baking sheet on the center rack of the oven. Roast for 12 to 15 minutes, checking halfway through. The asparagus should be tender yet crisp when done.
- Add Finishing Touches: Remove the roasting pan from the oven and allow asparagus to cool slightly. Squeeze fresh lemon juice or sprinkle lemon zest over the spears. Add grated Parmesan cheese if desired, for extra flavor.
- Serve: Transfer the roasted asparagus to a serving dish while warm. This side pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or pasta dishes.
Notes
- Use medium-thick asparagus spears for the best texture and roasting results.
- Adjust garlic amount to taste, or omit if sensitive to garlic.
- You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a milder flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- Roasting time may vary slightly depending on asparagus thickness; keep an eye to prevent overcooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or reheated gently.
