Indulge in the simple elegance of roasted asparagus, a versatile side dish that transforms this humble vegetable into a gourmet delight. Perfectly roasted to tender perfection with a golden edge, this asparagus is lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and can be customized with garlic, Parmesan, or a zest of lemon. Whether you're looking to complement a weeknight dinner or elevate a special meal, this roasted asparagus recipe is effortlessly delicious and sure to impress with its delightful flavor and minimal preparation.
1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting asparagus, as it's high enough to ensure a good roast while keeping the asparagus tender.
2. Prepare the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Dry the spears with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Trim off the tough, woody ends of the asparagus spears. This is usually about the bottom inch or so. You can snap them off with your hands or cut them with a knife.
3. Season the Asparagus: Place the asparagus on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, ensuring each spear is well-coated by tossing them gently. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste. If you're using minced garlic, sprinkle it over the asparagus now.
4. Roast: Spread the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. Try to ensure there's a little space between each spear for even cooking. Roast in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and lightly browned. The exact cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the asparagus spears.
5. Optional Finishing Touches: Once done, you can add some optional finishing touches for extra flavor. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese will melt beautifully on the hot asparagus. Alternatively, a bit of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add a bright, citrusy note.
6. Serve: Transfer the roasted asparagus to a serving platter. If you've opted for any of the finishing touches, add them now. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!