Roasted Asparagus with Garlic (Printable)

Tender asparagus roasted with olive oil, garlic, and hints of lemon and parsley.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed

→ Oils & Fats

02 - 2 tbsp olive oil

→ Seasonings

03 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
04 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

→ Garnish (optional)

06 - 1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1 tsp lemon zest
08 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

# How-to Steps:

01 - Set the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
02 - Wash the asparagus and trim off the woody ends.
03 - Lay the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet.
04 - Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus. Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic if using. Toss gently to ensure even coating.
05 - Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 12 to 15 minutes until the asparagus is tender and slightly crisp on the tips.
06 - Remove from oven. Optionally, garnish with Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and chopped parsley before serving.

# Expert Pointers:

01 -
  • It comes together in just 20 minutes from start to table, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something that tastes like you tried harder than you did
  • The high heat creates these gorgeous caramelized edges while keeping the insides tender and bright, which somehow makes everyone at the table suddenly love vegetables
  • It's naturally vegan and gluten-free, so it works for literally any dietary preference without needing separate recipes
02 -
  • Don't wash the asparagus and then immediately roast it. Pat it dry first. Any moisture clinging to the spears creates steam and prevents that gorgeous caramelization you're after
  • Watch the oven closely in those last few minutes. The difference between perfectly roasted and slightly burnt happens faster than you'd expect. Set a timer for 12 minutes and check from there
  • The woody ends really do need to go. That bottom inch or so is tough and fibrous and will never soften no matter how long you cook it. Trimming them saves you from disappointing bites
03 -
  • Save the asparagus scraps from trimming and use them to make a light vegetable broth. Nothing goes to waste in a thoughtful kitchen
  • Room temperature roasted asparagus is just as good as warm, making this a great option for meal prep or bringing to a potluck