Oh, asparagus! Such a humble vegetable, yet it carries a vibrant personality that can truly shine with just the right touch. You know, there was this time in early spring—I remember the air was crisp, almost biting—when I stumbled upon a farmer’s market brimming with fresh asparagus.
It was like they were calling out to me, these green spears, promising a burst of flavor that, if given the chance, could transform any meal into something special. This easy lemon garlic roasted asparagus recipe isn’t just a side dish; it’s a celebration of simplicity and freshness, where zesty lemon and aromatic garlic come together in perfect harmony. The kind of dish that makes you wonder why you don’t roast veggies more often.
Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, leaving you more time to soak up the little joys in life—like watching your favorite series or finally diving into that book that’s been collecting dust. So, let’s get started, shall we?
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Rinse the asparagus thoroughly and trim about an inch from the dry, woody ends. Mince two cloves of garlic.
- If desired, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the trimmed asparagus on the sheet along with the minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss to coat evenly.
- Place the asparagus in the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Roast until they are browned to your preference, keeping in mind that thicker asparagus may take longer.
- While the asparagus roasts, zest a lemon to obtain about 1 teaspoon of zest. Slice the lemon into wedges after zesting.
- Once the asparagus is done roasting, add the lemon zest and a couple of squeezes of lemon juice. Toss to coat the asparagus evenly. Adjust salt or lemon juice to taste if needed.
- Serve the roasted asparagus with the remaining lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your flavorful side dish!
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of asparagus (approximately 1 lb.)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon of salt
- 1/8 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 fresh lemon
Nutritional Values
Calories: 56.28 kcal | Carbohydrates: 5.05 g | Protein: 2.58 g | Fat: 3.63 g | Sodium: 106.38 mg | Fiber: 2.45 g
FAQ
- When is the best time to buy asparagus?
- Asparagus is best purchased during its peak season in the spring, typically from late February to early June, depending on your location. During this time, asparagus is more affordable and flavorful.
- How can I select the freshest asparagus at the store?
- Look for asparagus that is kept moist at the grocery store. Ensure the cut ends are not dry, preferably displayed in water, and that the stalks are firm rather than soft or rubbery. The tips should be tightly closed.
- Why is roasting asparagus a preferred method of cooking?
- Roasting enhances the flavor of asparagus, giving it a richer, savory taste compared to lighter methods like steaming. The edges become slightly brown and crispy, adding delightful texture.
- What dishes pair well with Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus?
- This dish complements roasted or grilled meats beautifully. Consider serving it with dishes like Lemon Pepper Chicken, Brown Sugar Roasted Pork Loin, or Creamy Mushroom Chicken with Crispy Onions.
- How do I prepare Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus?
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF, trim the asparagus, and toss it with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 20 minutes, then add lemon zest and juice before serving with lemon wedges.
Tips
- Ensure the asparagus is fresh by selecting stalks that are kept moist and have tightly closed flowering ends. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
- For easy cleanup, consider lining your baking sheet with parchment paper before roasting the asparagus.
- Adjust the roasting time based on the thickness of the asparagus stalks. Thicker stalks may require a bit more time to achieve your desired level of browning and crispness.
- Don’t skip the lemon zest and juice. They add a bright, fresh flavor that complements the roasted asparagus perfectly. Adjust the amount of lemon to suit your taste preferences.
Equipment
- Enamelware Sheet Pan
- Parchment Paper
- Grater (such as a box grater or small-holed cheese grater)