Looking for a quick and healthy side dish? This roasted asparagus recipe is the answer! Cooking asparagus in the oven at 425°F brings out its natural sweetness and creates a delightful crispy texture. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Imagine tender, vibrant green asparagus spears, lightly caramelized and bursting with flavor. The addition of garlic and a squeeze of fresh lemon elevates this dish, making it a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with any main course.
This recipe is simple yet impressive, allowing you to enjoy the fresh taste of asparagus while keeping your cooking time minimal. You won’t believe how easy it is to create such a delicious vegetable dish!
Preparation and Ingredients
To create this delightful platter of roasted asparagus, begin by gathering fresh asparagus spears. Look for firm, vibrant green stalks, as they will provide the best flavor and texture.
You will need a few essential ingredients, including olive oil, minced garlic, and a fresh lemon. These components work harmoniously to elevate the dish, adding rich flavors that complement the asparagus beautifully.
Don’t forget the finishing touch: grated Parmesan cheese. It adds a savory note that pairs well with the asparagus and gives the dish a lovely presentation.
Roasting Method
For perfectly roasted asparagus, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that golden-brown exterior and tender inside.
Once the oven is ready, place the prepared asparagus on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure each spear is well-coated.
Spread the asparagus in a single layer on the sheet for even cooking. Roast for about 12-15 minutes until they are tender and lightly charred.
The Flavor Profile
This dish is a celebration of fresh, bright flavors. The garlic brings a savory depth, while the lemon juice adds a zesty brightness that enhances the natural sweetness of the asparagus.
The roasting process caramelizes the asparagus, creating a delightful contrast between the tender inside and the slightly crisp edges. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that is sure to please any palate.
Serving Suggestions
Once your roasted asparagus is ready, consider how to serve it. For a simple yet elegant presentation, arrange the spears on a rustic wooden platter, showcasing their vibrant color and texture.
A drizzle of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens the dish even further. If you choose to add Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top for a touch of sophistication.
This dish makes an excellent side for grilled meats, seafood, or can stand alone as a vegetarian option. Pair it with a light salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition Insights
This roasted asparagus dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving contains approximately 120 calories, making it a healthy addition to any meal.
The combination of olive oil and Parmesan cheese provides healthy fats, while the asparagus offers fiber and essential vitamins. This side dish is both satisfying and guilt-free.
Enjoying fresh vegetables is a great way to maintain a balanced diet, and this roasted asparagus certainly delivers on that front.
Easy Oven-Roasted Asparagus Recipe
This roasted asparagus is bright and savory with a hint of garlic and zesty lemon. Baking at high temperature enhances the asparagus’s natural flavor while giving it a satisfying crunch.
The combination of flavors makes this dish a perfect complement to grilled meats, seafood, or even as a standalone vegetarian option.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare Asparagus: Wash and trim the asparagus. Place it on a large baking sheet.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Roast: Spread the asparagus in a single layer and roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and lightly browned.
- Finish: Remove from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 7g