Asparagus Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple yet delivers a burst of fresh, tangy flavors that brighten up any meal. Roasting the asparagus with lemon and garlic creates such a satisfying crunch, and the option to add Parmesan and parsley takes it to the next level of deliciousness!

I enjoy developing uncomplicated, healthful recipes that showcase the inherent flavors of fresh fruits and vegetables. This dish, featuring asparagus, is a case in point.

The vivid green stalks are chock-full of nutrients. I toss them with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper, then pan-fry with a modicum of minced garlic and a squeeze of lemon.

The dish is perfect as is. But, oh, the magic that a dusting of Parmesan and chopped parsley works!

Ingredients

Asparagus:
High in fiber, promotes digestive and cardiovascular health.

Olive Oil:
Comprises beneficial monounsaturated fats that enhance cardiovascular health.

Sea Salt:
Improves taste, delivers vital trace minerals.

Black Pepper:
Assists in the digestive process, provides gentle warmth and taste.

Garlic:
Strengthens immune function; provides flavorful, aromatic spice.

Lemon:
Rich in vitamin C, adds sharp brightness and freshness.

Parmesan Cheese:
Imparts a savory, umami taste; delivers calcium.

Parsley:
High in vitamins and antioxidants, contributes a clean taste.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus (about 1 pound), trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Set your oven to a temperature of 400°F (200°C).

2. Wash the asparagus in cool water and dry them off.

3. Cut off the tough ends of the asparagus. You can do this by simply snapping them off or using a knife.

4. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet.

5. Pour the olive oil over the asparagus and mix so that it evenly covers the spears.

6. Ensure the asparagus is well-seasoned with sea salt and black pepper.

7. Incorporate the minced garlic and toss once more to ensure even distribution.

8. Grate the lemon over the asparagus, then squeeze the juice over them.

9. Cook in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the tender but still crisp asparagus takes on an inviting warmth.

10. Take the dish from the oven and, if desired, top with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve right away.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring tablespoons
6. Measuring teaspoon
7. Mixing bowl
8. Garlic press (or a knife for mincing)
9. Citrus zester or grater
10. Juicer or reamer (optional)
11. Tongs or spatula
12. Serving dish or plate

FAQ

• Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?Certainly! It is permissible to use frozen asparagus; however, it is advisable to first thaw and dry the spears to prevent them from introducing extra liquid into the dish while cooking.
• What is the best way to trim asparagus?Gently bend each stalk and snap off the woody end. It will break naturally where the tender part begins.
• Can I use a different type of oil?Indeed, you can use avocado oil or grapeseed oil in place of olive oil for a different flavor.
• Is the Parmesan cheese necessary?Parmesan cheese is not a must-have ingredient, but it provides a delicious, savory note. You’ve got options if you are avoiding dairy. Omit the cheese and do. Or sub in nutritional yeast, which provides a similarly nutty, cheesy profile.
• How can I make this dish extra flavorful?For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes. For added texture and flavor, toss in some toasted pine nuts.
• How long should I roast the asparagus?Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the asparagus for 12-15 minutes in the oven, until it becomes tender and has developed a slight crispness.
• Can I prepare this dish in advance?The best way to eat asparagus is fresh, but you can make the lemon juice, zest, and other components ahead of time to make serving easier.

Substitutions and Variations

Olive Oil:
Replace with avocado oil or melted coconut oil.
Sea Salt:
Employ kosher salt or Himalayan pink salt.
Black Pepper:
Swap in white pepper or cayenne pepper if you want a spicier kick.
Garlic, Minced:
Garlic powder or shallots can be used to achieve a more subtle flavor.
Lemon:
You can use lime or tangerine in place of the key lime for a different citrus flavor.

Pro Tips

1. For even cooking, try to select asparagus spears that are similar in thickness. This will help ensure that all the spears are cooked to the same level of tenderness.

2. To enhance the garlic flavor, gently sauté the minced garlic in olive oil over low heat for 1-2 minutes before mixing it with the asparagus. This will infuse the oil with garlic flavor and reduce any harshness.

3. For a citrusy kick, consider reserving a portion of the lemon juice and zest to sprinkle over the asparagus right before serving. This will provide a fresh burst of flavor.

4. If you prefer your asparagus with a slight char, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of cooking time. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

5. For an added depth of flavor, experiment by adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a pinch of smoked paprika along with the salt and pepper. This will add a subtle heat or smokiness to the dish.