Description
This Roasted Asparagus recipe delivers perfectly tender and flavorful asparagus spears, enhanced with garlic, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan. Roasting brings out a subtle sweetness and a delightful slightly charred texture, making it a quick and delicious side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Asparagus
- 500g / 1 lb asparagus (approximately 3 standard Australian bunches)
Seasoning and Toppings
- 1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced (using a knife or garlic press)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) or 200°C (fan-forced). This high heat will roast the asparagus evenly, creating a lovely caramelized flavor.
- Prepare the Asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus tips by bending each spear until it naturally breaks at the right point. This ensures you remove the tough parts and only cook the tender stalks.
- Season the Asparagus: Place the asparagus spears on a baking tray. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and the finely minced garlic. Toss everything thoroughly so the asparagus is evenly coated, then spread them out in a single layer on the tray to allow even roasting.
- Roast: Roast the asparagus in the oven for 7 minutes, or until the ends develop a slight color and the stalks are just cooked through but still crisp. For thicker asparagus, roasting may take 10 to 12 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them so they don’t become wrinkly or mushy.
- Remove from Oven: Take out the asparagus once perfectly roasted and transfer it to a serving platter.
- Finish and Serve: Toss the warm asparagus with fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Finally, grate freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top as an optional garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Choose asparagus stalks that are firm and bright green for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust roasting time depending on the thickness of your asparagus — thinner spears need less time.
- Parmesan is optional but adds a delicious savory touch; substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- Leftover roasted asparagus can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and is great for salads or reheating gently.
