Simple Roasted Asparagus
Tender-crisp asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a light coating of olive oil, salt, and pepper. A quick, healthy, and delicious side dish that pairs wonderfully with almost any main course.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- b.Wash the asparagus spears under cold water and pat them dry.
- c.Snap off the tough, woody ends of each spear. They will naturally break at the right point.
TIPDrying the asparagus thoroughly is key to getting a good roast instead of steaming them in the oven. - 2
Step 2
- 3
Step 3
TIPFor even cooking, give the pan a little shake halfway through the roasting time. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the asparagus to steam. - 4
Step 4
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. This ensures they roast evenly and get slightly caramelized.
- 2The cooking time will vary based on the thickness of your asparagus. Thin spears may only need 10 minutes, while thicker ones might take up to 15-18 minutes.
- 3Don't overcook the asparagus or it will become limp and mushy. Aim for a vibrant green color and a tender-crisp texture.
- 4Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or an air fryer to maintain some crispness.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some lemon zest after roasting for a bright, fresh flavor without adding calories.
quickQuick
Cook in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, for an even quicker result.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Sprinkle with a little garlic powder along with the salt and pepper before roasting. Kids love the mild garlic flavor.
high proteinHigh protein
For a flavor and protein boost, sprinkle with 1-2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese during the last 2 minutes of roasting.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Asparagus is a great source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health and can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Packed with Vitamins
It's an excellent source of Vitamin K, essential for bone health and blood clotting, as well as Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which support immune function.
Low in Calories and Carbs
As a non-starchy vegetable, asparagus is very low in calories and carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for weight management and diabetic-friendly diets.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. It's low in calories and high in fiber, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K. Roasting with a small amount of olive oil is a heart-healthy preparation method.