Go Back
How to Cook Perfect Asparagus (Quick & Easy Recipe)

Perfect Roasted Asparagus

Fresh asparagus is coated with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper, then roasted at high heat until bright green, lightly browned, and tender-crisp. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound Fresh asparagus
  • 1 tablespoon Extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
For Serving
  • 1/2 lemon, cut into wedges Lemon
Optional Additions
  • 1 clove Garlic clove, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons Finely grated Parmesan
  • 1 tablespoon Melted butter

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment if desired.
  2. Rinse the asparagus and dry it thoroughly. Trim or snap off the tough, woody ends, usually about 1 to 2 inches from the bottom.
  3. Arrange the spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss until every spear is evenly coated.
  5. Roast for 10–15 minutes, checking thinner spears around 8–10 minutes and allowing thicker spears closer to 14–15 minutes.
  6. Remove the asparagus when it is bright green, tender when pierced, and still slightly firm. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

Dry the asparagus well to encourage browning instead of steaming. Use spears of similar thickness, avoid overcrowding the pan, and place the pan in the upper third of the oven for extra browning. You can broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.