Description
This recipe offers a simple and flavorful way to prepare roasted asparagus, perfect for a quick gourmet side dish. Tender yet slightly crisp asparagus spears are coated with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, then roasted to perfection and finished with a bright touch of lemon juice and optional Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 bunch Fresh Asparagus (bright green, medium-thick spears)
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 3 cloves Minced Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 1 tablespoon Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preparation Steps: Rinse the asparagus under cool running water and gently pat dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels. Snap off the tough, woody ends of the asparagus by bending each spear near the base until it naturally breaks.
- Season the Asparagus: Place the asparagus spears on a baking sheet. Drizzle evenly with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper over the asparagus. Toss the spears gently with your hands or tongs to ensure each is evenly coated with the seasonings and oil.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring it reaches the proper temperature before roasting the asparagus for best results.
- Roast the Asparagus: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the asparagus for 12 to 15 minutes. Halfway through cooking, use tongs to turn the spears to ensure even roasting on all sides. The asparagus should be tender yet still retain a slight crispness.
- Add Finishing Touches: Remove the asparagus from the oven. Immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the spears to brighten the flavor. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese to add richness and a savory depth. If desired, a little lemon zest can also be sprinkled for an extra citrus aroma.
- Serve: Serve the roasted asparagus immediately as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite main course.
Notes
- Choose medium-thick asparagus spears for optimal texture; very thin spears may cook too quickly and become mushy.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
- Adjust roasting time depending on the thickness of the asparagus spears—thicker spears may require a slightly longer roasting time.
- Leftover roasted asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and gently reheated.
- For added flavor, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting.
