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Roasted Asparagus – Simple & Delicious

Roasted Asparagus – Simple & Delicious
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Roasted Asparagus – Simple & Delicious is an easy and satisfying vegetable side dish featuring tender, slightly crisp asparagus spears seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, this recipe highlights the natural flavor of asparagus with options to customize using herbs, spices, or toppings for every meal occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh asparagus (firm, bright green spears with closed tips)
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (for finishing)

Optional Variations and Toppings

  • 1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced (for garlic-infused version)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for cheesy topping)
  • Red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper (for spicy kick)
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons balsamic glaze (for finishing drizzle)
  • Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill (about 1 tablespoon chopped)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting asparagus to achieve a tender-crisp texture with caramelized edges.
  2. Prepare the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus under cool water and pat dry thoroughly. Snap or cut off the tough bottom ends, about 1 to 2 inches, to ensure tenderness throughout.
  3. Season the Spears: Place the asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly, then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add any optional seasonings or herbs if desired.
  4. Roast Until Tender: Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 12 to 15 minutes, adjusting time based on spear thickness—thinner spears cook faster, thicker ones may need longer.
  5. Add Finishing Touches: Once roasted, remove from the oven and optionally squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top or add toppings such as grated Parmesan cheese, balsamic glaze, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Choose even-sized asparagus spears to ensure uniform cooking.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; give spears space to roast rather than steam.
  • Use good quality olive oil for better flavor absorption.
  • Adjust roasting time as needed depending on spear thickness; check frequently towards the end.
  • Flip the asparagus gently halfway through roasting for even browning.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Avoid freezing roasted asparagus as texture and crispness degrade upon thawing.
  • Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes to preserve texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted asparagus, easy vegetable side, healthy side dish, gluten free, simple asparagus recipe, oven roasted asparagus, vegetable recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/roasted-asparagus-simple-delicious/