Vintage Oven-Roasted Asparagus

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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When it comes to side dishes that are both quick and impressive, this Vintage Oven-Roasted Asparagus is a standout. With a touch of garlic and a hint of lemon zest, this dish brings out the best in fresh asparagus, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

Ingredients for Vintage Oven-Roasted Asparagus

Asparagus is the star of the show here, providing a tender and slightly sweet base that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Olive oil coats the asparagus, helping it roast to perfection while adding a rich, fruity flavor. A sprinkle of kosher salt enhances the natural taste of the asparagus, while ground black pepper adds a subtle heat. Garlic brings a robust, savory note that complements the earthiness of the asparagus. Finally, a dash of lemon zest adds brightness and a fresh, citrusy aroma that makes the dish pop.

Tips & Tricks

  • For even more flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese right before serving.
  • To test if the asparagus is done, poke it with a fork; it should slide in easily.
  • For a smokier taste, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika before roasting.

Serving Suggestions

This roasted asparagus pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or seared salmon. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a creamy risotto or a simple pasta with olive oil and herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen asparagus?
Fresh is best for this recipe, but if you must use frozen, ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry to avoid sogginess.
What can I use instead of lemon zest?
If you don't have lemons on hand, a splash of lemon juice or a bit of lime zest can work in a pinch.

Vintage Oven-Roasted Asparagus Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is warming up, grab your bunch of asparagus. Each stalk has a woody end, so take a moment to trim these off. You can do this by gently bending the stalks until they snap at their natural breaking point, or simply cut off about an inch from the bottom.

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine your trimmed asparagus with the olive oil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and the minced garlic. Toss everything together until the asparagus is well-coated with the oil and seasonings—make sure each spear gets some love!

Once coated, spread the asparagus out on a baking sheet. The key here is to arrange them in a single layer; this ensures they cook evenly and get that lovely, slightly charred finish. Slide the tray into your preheated oven and let them roast for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and just starting to char at the tips.

After removing the asparagus from the oven, finish them with a sprinkle of lemon zest. This final touch adds a burst of freshness and ties all the flavors together beautifully. Serve immediately, and watch them disappear!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes.
  • Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
  • Healthy and naturally gluten-free.
  • Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh asparagus
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon zest

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus.
3. In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
4. Arrange the asparagus on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with lemon zest before serving.

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