Roasted Asparagus
Looking for a side dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor?
Roasted asparagus is your answer!
This simple recipe transforms asparagus into a crispy, garlicky delight with just a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of seasoning.
For that extra wow factor, finish it off with a splash of lemon and a dusting of parmesan.
Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect addition to any meal!
For Roasted Asparagus
- Asparagus – Fresh asparagus is the star of the dish. Simply snap off the tough, woody ends and you’re ready to go.
- Olive Oil – A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil helps to crisp the asparagus while roasting.
- Salt & Pepper – Basic seasoning to bring out the natural flavor of the asparagus.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds a wonderful savory punch to the dish.
Optional Finish
- Lemon Juice – A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavor of the roasted asparagus.
- Parmesan – Freshly grated parmesan gives a salty, nutty finish to the dish.
Roasted Asparagus
Ingredients:
- 500g (1 lb) asparagus (about 3 standard bunches)
- 1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced (use a knife or garlic press)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp parmesan, freshly grated
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) or 200°C (fan-forced).
- Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus. The asparagus will naturally break at the right spot.
- Arrange the asparagus on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic. Toss to coat, then spread the asparagus out in an even layer.
- Roast for 7 minutes, or until the tips are slightly browned and the asparagus is tender. For thicker spears, it may take 10-12 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as they’ll become limp.
- Remove from the oven and toss with lemon juice (if using).
- Transfer to a serving platter and top with freshly grated parmesan, if desired. Serve and enjoy!
- Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?
Fresh asparagus is preferred for the best texture, but you can use frozen if necessary. Just be sure to thaw it out first and pat it dry before roasting to avoid sogginess!
- How do I avoid overcooking the asparagus?
Keep an eye on it while roasting. The asparagus should be tender but still crisp. Typically, 7 minutes works well, but for thicker spears, it might take up to 12 minutes. You want the tips to have a little color but not become too shriveled.
- Can I prepare the asparagus ahead of time?
Yes! Trim the asparagus and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for a day. You can even toss it with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in advance, making the actual roasting step a breeze!
- Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?
Yes! You can use other oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil. However, olive oil adds a nice flavor, so it’s highly recommended if you have it on hand.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To avoid sogginess, reheat the asparagus in a hot skillet for a few minutes to get it crispy again. You can also roast it in the oven for a couple of minutes to restore the texture!
