Description
This recipe delivers deliciously easy roasted asparagus in just 15 minutes, featuring perfectly tender spears coated in olive oil, garlic, and seasoning, then finished with a bright touch of lemon and optional Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Asparagus
- 1 bunch Fresh Asparagus (Medium-thick spears for best texture)
Seasonings and Toppings
- 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)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice or Zest (Optional for added brightness)
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional, nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
Instructions
- Preparation: Rinse the fresh asparagus under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim off the woody ends by snapping them off or cutting about an inch from the bottom. Pat the asparagus dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel to ensure even roasting.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully preheat for optimal roasting conditions.
- Season Asparagus: Arrange the prepared asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the spears, then sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently with your hands or a spatula to coat the asparagus evenly with the oil and seasonings.
- Roast: Place the baking sheet on the center rack of the preheated oven. Roast the asparagus for 12 to 15 minutes, checking halfway through. The asparagus should be tender but still crisp and slightly browned in spots.
- Final Touches: Remove the asparagus from the oven and let it cool slightly. Immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice or sprinkle lemon zest over the spears for brightness. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast over the top while the asparagus is still warm to allow it to melt slightly.
- Serve: Transfer the roasted asparagus to a serving dish and enjoy warm as a flavorful side dish, perfect alongside grilled meats, pasta, or your favorite main course.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or omit entirely.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on your preference for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
- Use thicker asparagus spears for the best texture and avoid overcooking to maintain a slight crispness.
- Leftover roasted asparagus can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or eaten cold in salads.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes before roasting.
