Roasting asparagus is a fantastic way to enjoy this delicious and nutritious vegetable. It’s quick and easy to make, making it a perfect weeknight dinner side or an elegant addition to a holiday meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick-Cooking: Asparagus cooks quickly, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
- Minimal Prep: Simply trim the ends and toss with oil and seasonings.
- Versatile:
You can season roasted asparagus with a variety of ingredients, making it a versatile side dish. - Healthy: Asparagus is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Kid-Friendly: Asparagus is a mild-flavored vegetable that most kids enjoy.
Tips for Making the Best Roasted Asparagus
- Trim the Asparagus: Remove the tough, woody ends of the asparagus before roasting.
- Use Enough Oil: Toss the asparagus with enough oil to coat it lightly. This will help prevent the tips from burning.
- Spread the Asparagus into a Single Layer:
Make sure the asparagus spears aren’t touching so the air can circulate. - Roast at a High Temperature: Roast the asparagus at 425 degrees F for 9 to 11 minutes (thin stalks) or 15 to 20 minutes (thick stalks).
- Don’t Overcook: Asparagus can become mushy if overcooked. Use a fork to test for doneness.
Recipe Variations
- Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan: Sprinkle roasted asparagus with freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- Roasted Asparagus with Lemon: Add a thinly sliced lemon to the pan with the asparagus prior to roasting. Finish the dish with an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice and lemon zest.
- Spicy Roasted Asparagus: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Balsamic Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle the asparagus with 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Herb Roasted Asparagus: Add dried herbs like basil, oregano, or Italian seasoning (before roasting), or finish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley (after roasting).
- Nutty Roasted Asparagus: Top the asparagus with a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds, chopped toasted pecans, or toasted pine nuts.
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Sprinkle and toss the asparagus in garlic powder prior to roasting.
Serving Suggestions
- Salmon: Roasted asparagus pairs well with salmon, especially Garlic Salmon with Butter and Lemon or Balsamic Glazed Salmon.
- Steak: Roasted asparagus is a great side dish for steak, such as Air Fryer Steak.
- Pork: Roasted asparagus can be served with pork dishes like Stuffed Pork Tenderloin or Baked Pork Tenderloin.
- Chicken: Roasted asparagus is a classy side dish for chicken dishes like Rosemary Chicken Thighs or Lemon Butter Chicken.
Storage Tips
- To Store: Refrigerate roasted asparagus in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To Reheat: Rewarm leftovers on a baking sheet in the oven at 350 degrees F.
- To Freeze: I don’t recommend freezing roasted asparagus, as it becomes mushy. If you must, freeze asparagus in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
