You know, sometimes vegetables get a bad rap, but when it comes to asparagus, it’s like the unsung hero of side dishes. Picture this: crispy, savory spears kissed by the oven’s warmth, wearing a decadent coat of garlic and parmesan—it’s like a gourmet hug on a plate. Last week, while scrolling through endless TikTok food trends, this recipe popped up, and honestly, it was like finding a hidden gem in a thrift store!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Rinse the asparagus and trim away any tough, woody ends.
- Evenly spread the asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly coat them with olive oil spray and season with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and parmesan cheese.
- Gently combine the asparagus with the seasonings using your hands, ensuring each spear is well-coated. Rearrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet and apply another light spray of olive oil.
- Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for 8-9 minutes, until they are crisp-tender. Remove from the oven and serve immediately for best flavor.
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound fresh asparagus
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- Olive oil spray
Nutritional Values
Calories: 99kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 6g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 832mg | Potassium: 246mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 900IU | Vitamin C: 7.8mg | Calcium: 94mg | Iron: 2.4mg
FAQ
- How can I keep asparagus fresh for longer?
- To maintain asparagus at its peak freshness, store it upright in a bowl filled with cold water. Alternatively, you can wrap the bottom of the spears in a damp paper towel before placing them in the fridge.
- When is the best time to buy asparagus?
- Asparagus is at its freshest and most flavorful during the spring months, typically from February to June. While available year-round, its quality and price are usually better in the spring.
- What’s the best method to roast asparagus in the oven?
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Arrange rinsed and trimmed asparagus on a lined baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic, and parmesan cheese. Mix well, then spread the asparagus in an even layer. Roast for 8-9 minutes and serve immediately.
- Should I choose thick or thin asparagus spears?
- The choice between thick and thin asparagus largely depends on personal preference. Thicker spears are older and can sometimes be tougher, while thinner ones are younger. Both can be delicious if prepared correctly.
- Can I add other flavors to this roasted asparagus recipe?
- Yes, to enhance the flavor of your roasted asparagus, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before roasting. This adds a refreshing brightness to the dish.
Tips
- To keep asparagus fresh, store it upright in a bowl of cold water in the fridge; if space is limited, wrapping the bottom of the asparagus in a damp paper towel will also help maintain its crispness.
- For a brighter flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the asparagus before roasting.
- Avoid overcooking by roasting the asparagus for only 8-9 minutes; this will maintain a slightly crisp texture instead of becoming mushy.
- Use a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper to minimize cleanup, as this allows you to prepare and roast the asparagus on the same pan.
Equipment
- Rimmed baking sheet – Essential for roasting the asparagus.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – Used for lining the baking sheet to make cleanup easier.
- Olive oil spray – To coat the asparagus lightly and evenly.
- Airtight container – For storing leftovers in the fridge.