Go Back
Perfect Asparagus Made Easy Recipe: Oven-Roasted in 20 Minutes

Perfect Asparagus Made Easy

Fresh asparagus is roasted at high heat until bright green and tender-crisp, then finished with lemon for a fresh, savory side dish. Optional garlic, Parmesan, and lemon zest add extra flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound Fresh asparagus
  • 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
Finishing
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
Optional Additions
  • 1 clove Small garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Grated Parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon zest

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment if desired, or place the baking sheet in the oven while it preheats for better browning.
  2. Rinse the asparagus and dry it thoroughly. Trim away the bottom 1 to 2 inches of each stalk, or snap the spears at their natural breaking point.
  3. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. Toss with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and minced garlic if using.
  4. Roast until bright green and just tender. Thin spears take about 8 to 10 minutes, medium spears about 10 to 12 minutes, and thick spears about 12 to 15 minutes.
  5. Finish the roasted asparagus with fresh lemon juice or lemon wedges. Sprinkle with Parmesan or lemon zest if desired, then serve immediately.

Notes

Dry the asparagus well before adding oil so it roasts instead of steaming. Keep the spears in one layer and begin checking early because asparagus can soften quickly. Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container and reheat briefly in a 425°F oven or enjoy them chilled.