Introduction
Want to make the classic roasted asparagus recipe? Here’s how, with its rich flavor and great side dish for all kinds of meals. Asparagus may be one of the least popular vegetables of all,
but when used correctly, it’s a household favorite. With a slightly grassy flavor and tender, crisp texture, it’s perfect for roasting. Roasting brings out its sweetness and adds a delicious, slightly caramelized edge. If you’re not already familiar, it’s easy and quick to make.
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to choose the right asparagus for every meal, how to prepare it, and how to roast it, serve it with chicken, stew, fish, or pasta.
You will find this recipe amazing and full of taste, so let’s start making it.
This recipe is for 4 people, you can make it for less or more people using the same method.
Table of Contents
Ingredients (serves 4)
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (1 pound)
- 1½ to 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt ½ teaspoon black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Optional:
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Lemon juice ½ teaspoon shredded Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper (for heat)
- Balsamic glaze for finishing
Tools (for roasted asparagus):
- Kitchen scissors
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Baking sheet
- Tongs or spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper (for cleanup)
1. How to use fresh asparagus
Whenever you buy asparagus from the store or market, make sure to look for these things-
Firmness: The stem should be firm and not limp
Color: The stem should be purple in color and bright green in color
Tip: Compact, closed (always avoid tips that look wet or soft)
Size: When you roast asparagus, roast it in medium thickness, not too thin or too thick.
When you use thick stems, it will take more time to cook, while thin stems will take less time and will dry out if overcooked. So cook as per the recipe and cook it properly.
2. Preheat the oven:
Preheat the oven to 204°C (400°F), this temperature is perfect for even roasting of asparagus, which gives a slightly crispy outside and soft inside.
If you run the oven on cool or hot, consider using a thermometer to be more accurate.
3. Asparagus (How to wash and cut):
Asparagus needs to be washed well because it grows in sandy soil, which leaves sand and dirt all over the plant, especially the roots. To wash, rinse the stalks well using cool, running water.
Gently rub the stalks to remove dirt and grit, especially near the ends.
After washing, trim the woody heads:
How to trim:
Gently hold the asparagus stalk with both hands and bend it. When you bend it, you will notice that it will break where the soft part and hard part meet.
Use the broken stalk as a guide and cut the rest of the stalk into a bundle using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors.
4. How to season asparagus:
Place the trimmed asparagus stalks on a baking sheet. Cover them well with parchment paper or aluminum foil to ensure even coating.
Drizzle 1½ to 2½ teaspoons of olive oil over the asparagus. Stir the stalks with your hands or use tongs to coat them evenly.
Now season with:
Black pepper ¼
Kosher salt ½ or to taste
Optional ingredients: (Using more may make the taste even better.
Add minced garlic to enhance the flavor
Add lemon zest to enhance the flavor
Parmesan cheese Method: Sprinkle this whenever you roast it before or after for a cheesy crunch.
You can use a little or as much red pepper flakes to bring in the heat.
5. How to arrange on baking sheet:
Don’t put too much asparagus in the pan. Putting too much will make the asparagus mushy instead of browning. Spread it in a single layer for a nice crispy top.
If you are adding too much asparagus, make sure to give it enough space or use two baking sheets so that it can roast properly and you can finish it quickly.
6. How to roast asparagus:
To roast it, preheat a baking sheet and place it in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Roast according to the time given below.
Roast thin asparagus for 10 to 12 minutes
Roast medium asparagus for 13 to 15 minutes
Roast pearl asparagus for 16 to 18 minutes
Roast asparagus for half the cooking time and use a spatula or tongs to gently flip it.
How to tell if it’s done:
The tips will look slightly crisp
The stalks will become soft when pierced with a fork or sharp object
The color of the asparagus changes to a dark green
7. Serve and garnish:
Remove the asparagus from the oven and transfer to a serving plate.
Optional final advice:
- Don’t drizzle the lemon juice over the asparagus.
- If you don’t like it too salty or sweet, drizzle with a balsamic glaze to finish off the sweet note.
- Sprinkle with toasted nuts or Parmesan cheese.
- If you want to go extra fancy, serve this with a fried, or even hard-boiled, egg for breakfast or brunch.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Serving suggestions:
- Once you’ve grilled asparagus, it can be paired with a variety of side dishes that will make you feel great. Here are some ideas for serving it:
- With shrimp or baked salmon
- With chicken or grilled steak
- You can also heat olive oil and herbs together and add them to pasta.
- Serve over grains or chopped into salads.
Tips for storing and reheating leftovers:
When you have leftover roasted asparagus, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
To reheat it right after it’s been taken out of the refrigerator, heat it in an oven preheated to 350°F for 6 to 7 minutes.
If you don’t want to use the oven, just toss it in a little oil on a pan for 3 to 4 minutes.
Be careful not to microwave asparagus as it may be soggy.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- After washing the asparagus, do not dry it. Wet asparagus will steam, not roast.
- You can use multiple pans with a large enough baking sheet to avoid overcrowding the pans.
- Don’t overcook it. Keep an eye on it as you roast it. Asparagus will become soft when overcooked.
Use of spices:
Do not add spices to it. Salt, pepper and oil are just a sprinkling and enhance the taste to a great extent. Due to which you start getting a different taste.
Nutrition facts found in it:
- Protein 2 grams
- Calories 70 grams
- Carbs 6 grams
- Fat 5 grams
- Vitamin K 50% more than DV
- Folate 35% DV
- Fiber 2.8 grams
Asparagus has low calorie content and many nutrients like fiber, folate, vitamin A, C and K are found in it.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- It takes about 20 minutes to prepare, making it quick and easy to make.
- It’s high in nutrients and low in carbs, making it a healthy addition.
- It goes well with all kinds of side dishes and tastes great, making it a hit with everyone.
Customizable: You can spice it up and make it your own after-dinner meal.
Final Thoughts:
Roasting asparagus makes for the easiest and most healthy addition to your plate. It’s easy to make with all the simple ingredients and doesn’t take long. It can be a side dish that’s great for company, and can be a great addition to any occasional weeknight or party, making it a great way to have a full dinner table.
If you are new to cooking and are looking for a vegetable recipe then leave everything aside and make roasted asparagus which will become your favorite and will be cooked very well.
So start making it with this recipe which is very easy.