Description
A simple and delicious recipe for perfectly roasted asparagus, seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and optional lemon juice and parmesan for enhanced flavor. This quick side dish is tender with a slightly crispy end and ideal for complementing any main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 500 g asparagus (1 lb, approximately 3 standard Australian bunches)
- 1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
Optional Finishes
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp parmesan, freshly grated
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 220°C (430°F) or 200°C (fan assisted) to get it ready for roasting.
- Prepare the asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus; they will naturally break at the right spot. This ensures tenderness in the cooked asparagus.
- Season the asparagus: Place the asparagus on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and the minced garlic. Toss everything together to coat the asparagus evenly, then spread it out in a single layer on the tray.
- Roast the asparagus: Place the tray in the oven and roast for 7 minutes. For very thick asparagus, roast for 10 to 12 minutes until the ends develop a bit of color and the stalks are just cooked through, but not wrinkly or limp.
- Remove and finish: Take the asparagus out of the oven. If using, toss with lemon juice for brightness, then transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan over the top if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For the freshest asparagus, select stalks that are firm and bright green with tightly closed tips.
- Snap the ends instead of cutting with a knife to remove the woody, tough parts naturally.
- Adjust roasting time depending on the thickness of your asparagus stalks for perfect tenderness.
- The optional lemon juice adds a bright acidity that complements the roasted flavor.
- Parmesan can be substituted with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or as a healthy addition to any vegetarian meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 125 g
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 3 mg
