Simple Lemon-Roasted Asparagus
This simple lemon-roasted asparagus recipe is the easiest and most flavorful way to prepare this vibrant spring vegetable, perfect as a quick, healthy side dish for any meal.
For 4 servings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, if desired.
Wash the asparagus thoroughly under cold running water. To trim, hold each spear by both ends and bend gently; the woody end will naturally snap off at its tender point. Discard the woody ends.
Place the trimmed asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle evenly with extra virgin olive oil.
Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, tossing gently with your hands to ensure all spears are lightly coated. Arrange them in a single layer again, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
Roast in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your asparagus spears; thinner spears will cook faster.
The asparagus is done when it is tender-crisp and slightly browned at the tips. Pierce a spear with a fork to check for desired doneness.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Immediately squeeze the juice from half a fresh lemon directly over the hot asparagus.
Serve hot as a delicious and healthy side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Don't Overcrowd**: Ensure asparagus spears are in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam them instead of roasting, leading to a less desirable texture. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- 2**Snap, Don't Cut**: The best way to remove the woody ends is to gently bend each spear until it naturally snaps. This ensures you only remove the tough, fibrous part.
- 3**Adjust Cook Time**: Thinner asparagus spears will cook faster (closer to 10 minutes), while thicker ones might need up to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- 4**Fresh Lemon is Key**: Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks the bright, vibrant taste that makes this dish shine.
Adapt it for your goals.
Garlic & Herb
Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs (or fresh thyme/rosemary) to the asparagus before roasting for an aromatic twist.
Parmesan FinishParmesan Finish
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus during the last 2-3 minutes of roasting, or immediately after removing from the oven, for a salty, umami kick.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper for a subtle heat that complements the lemon.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Asparagus is an excellent source of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and folate, which are essential for blood clotting, immune function, vision, and cell growth.
High in Fiber
This vegetable provides a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion, promoting gut health, and helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Asparagus contains powerful antioxidants like glutathione, quercetin, and kaempferol, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Frequently asked questions
You can trim the asparagus a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to roast it just before serving.
