Description
This roasted asparagus is crisp‑tender with lightly caramelized tips, garlic aroma, and a bright lemon finish. It’s a quick, weeknight‑friendly side that pairs with everything from chicken to steak—or stands tall at brunch under a poached egg.
Ingredients
1 lb asparagus, trimmed
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
1 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Dry asparagus well, then trim off the woody ends.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon zest until evenly coated.
4. Spread in a single layer on the sheet—do not overcrowd.
5. Roast 12–15 minutes, until spears are tender with lightly browned tips.
6. Finish with lemon juice; add Parmesan and red pepper flakes if using.
7. Taste and adjust salt/pepper.
8. Serve immediately.
Notes
Choose medium‑thickness spears for the best texture; very thin spears cook faster and can over‑brown.
Dry the asparagus before seasoning—moisture prevents caramelization.
For extra flavor, preheat the baking sheet in the oven so the bottoms sear on contact.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 12-15 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe (6–8 spears)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 220
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 0.8
- Unsaturated Fat: 4
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 7
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 0
Keywords: asparagus, roasted asparagus, lemon garlic