Roasted Asparagus
Fresh asparagus spears tossed with a touch of olive oil and black pepper, then roasted until tender-crisp. This simple method enhances the vegetable's natural sweetness, making it a perfect, healthy side for any main course.
For 4 servings
- prep
Preheat your oven and prepare the asparagus.
1.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).2.Wash the asparagus spears and pat them dry.3.Snap or cut off the tough, woody ends of each spear.TIPDrying the asparagus thoroughly helps it roast and get crisp rather than steam in the oven. - mix
Season the asparagus.
1.Place the trimmed asparagus on a baking sheet.2.Drizzle with olive oil.3.Sprinkle with garlic powder and freshly ground black pepper.4.Toss gently with your hands to coat the spears evenly. - roast
Roast the asparagus until tender-crisp.
Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your spears. They should be tender but still have a slight bite.
TIPDon't overcrowd the pan. A single layer ensures even roasting and browning. - serve
Garnish and serve immediately.
Remove the asparagus from the oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and serve hot with extra lemon wedges on the side.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For best results, use asparagus spears that are similar in thickness so they cook at the same rate.
- 2A pinch of red pepper flakes can be added with the black pepper for a little bit of heat.
- 3Leftover roasted asparagus is great chopped up and added to salads, frittatas, or pasta.
- 4To check for doneness, pierce a spear with a fork. It should be tender but not mushy.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Use an oil spray mister to apply a very thin, even coat of olive oil, further reducing the fat content.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Sprinkle with a little grated Parmesan cheese during the last 2 minutes of roasting for a cheesy, savory crust.
quickQuick
Use your air fryer instead of the oven. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Asparagus is packed with antioxidants, which help protect your cells from the harmful effects of free radicals and oxidative stress.
Excellent Source of Fiber
The dietary fiber in asparagus promotes digestive health and can help you feel full, which is beneficial for weight management.
Supports Heart Health
Being naturally low in sodium and a good source of potassium, asparagus can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels. This recipe omits added salt, making it even more heart-friendly.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. Asparagus is low in calories and a great source of nutrients like fiber, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K. Roasting with minimal oil is one of the healthiest ways to prepare it.
