The Easiest Roasted Asparagus
With all of the amazing and intricate main dishes on the internet, side dishes are always necessary! Side dishes come in a variety of different forms. So, if you are in the beginning stages of learning how to cook, start off with side dishes. At most gatherings there will be more side dishes than main proteins. For me personally, the sides are what make the entire meal.This Quick and Easy Roasted Asparagus recipe is a perfect example of that.
Asparagus facts
Asparagus is one of the most simple vegetables to make. They are low in calories and full of fiber, and vitamins K, C, and A. From white to green to purple, asparagus come in so many varieties. They are a flowering plant that grows in stalks that can grow to several feet. Whenever you buy asparagus look for spears that are medium to large. Cut the bottoms off of the asparagus because they are very fibrous and tough (about ½ of an inch). Always remember to store them in the refrigerator as well.
Roasting Vegetables
Roasting vegetables such as asparagus should be easy and quick. Proper roasting requires high heat and a limited amount of time in the oven. With asparagus, the thinner they are the shorter the cooking time. If the asparagus can be pierced with a fork or knife at the ends, they are done. Burned vegetables are not the goal! We want a nice golden brown color with a slight char. The best temperature range for roasting is between 400°F and 450°F. 425°F is the golden number for me. It is right in the middle of the range and never fails.
Seasoning Options
Now since this recipe is so simple, you can definitely have fun with the seasonings. In this recipe I add a little kick just as a personal preference. But, if you’re not into heat, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice will do just fine. For more seasoning options, check the bottom of the recipe below. This is the time to experiment and figure out what you like. Just make sure not to over-season with salt. Vegetables absorb salt very quickly; and, you don't want a concentrated taste of salt on your tongue.
The oil you use also plays a part in how your roasted asparagus turn out. Classic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the best in my opinion. It adds a nice flavor to the asparagus as well. The oil also helps with the roasting process as well. As the oil’s temperature increases in the oven, the oil begins to brown whatever you are roasting.
Making this simple recipe will have people thinking that you know your way around the kitchen. Have fun with your side dishes! Enjoy what you are cooking! If you don't, no one else will! Let me know if you tried this recipe by leaving a comment below. Enjoy fam!
The Easiest Roasted Asparagus
Ingredients:
- 1 Bunch (around 1 lb) - Large Asparagus
- ¼ each - lemon
- 1 tbsp - garlic, minced
- 1 ½ tsp - salt
- ½ tsp - black pepper
- ½ tsp - paprika
- ½ tsp - onion powder
- ¼ tsp - red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp - EVOO
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425-430 degrees
- Wash and dry the bunch of asparagus. Chop the ends of the asparagus off (about ½ of an inch). The ends are very tough and should be discarded.
- Line a half sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy clean up at the end. Mix all of your seasoning together.
- Drizzle one tablespoon of oil onto the lined sheet pan and lay out your bunch of asparagus. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon on top of them.
- Take your seasoning mixture and sprinkle over top of the asparagus. Make sure that each is coated in seasoning.
- Top the asparagus with the minced garlic. Squeeze the lemon wedge on top of all of them and place into the oven.
- The thinner the asparagus, the faster they will cook. Thinner asparagus will take between 10 to 12 minutes. Thicker asparagus will take between 15 to 22 minutes.
- Once fully roasted, remove the asparagus from the oven. They can be served hot or room temperature. Check the notes section below for other additions to the recipe. Enjoy!
