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How to Roast Asparagus Recipe

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4.1 from 15 reviews

A simple and delicious recipe for roasting asparagus to perfection. This method enhances the natural flavors of the asparagus with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh lemon zest for a bright finish. Perfect as a quick side dish for any meal.

  • Total Time: 14 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Asparagus

  • 1 bunch of asparagus (about 1 pound/455g), medium thickness

Seasoning

  • 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt or 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • Zest from 1 lemon (about 1 1/2 teaspoons)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (205ºC) and position the oven rack in the center to ensure even roasting.
  2. Prepare the asparagus: Rinse the asparagus spears under cool water and pat them dry thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  3. Trim the asparagus ends: Snap off the tough ends by bending each spear near the bottom until it naturally breaks. For spears that don’t snap easily, trim about half an inch off with a knife. This removes the woody parts.
  4. Arrange on baking sheet: Place the trimmed asparagus in a single layer on a large sheet pan, making sure they are not crowded so they roast evenly.
  5. Oil and season: Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and rub or roll the spears on the pan to coat them thoroughly. Add extra oil if needed. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper evenly over the spears.
  6. Roast: Transfer the pan to the oven and roast. For thin spears (about 1/4 inch thick), roast for 7 to 8 minutes. For medium thickness (1/2 inch), roast for 8 to 9 minutes. For thick spears (3/4 inch or more), roast for 11 to 13 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
  7. Add lemon zest and serve: Remove the asparagus from the oven and immediately sprinkle the lemon zest on top. Gently toss the spears with a spatula to distribute the zest. Serve hot for the best flavor.

Notes

  • Make sure asparagus is dry before roasting to get crisp edges.
  • Adjust roasting time based on the thickness of your asparagus to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
  • For added flavor, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese after roasting.
  • Use fresh lemon zest instead of lemon juice for a bright, aromatic finish without added liquid.
  • Roasted asparagus is best served immediately but can be reheated gently.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 9 minutes (average)
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian