If you're a fan of vibrant flavors and healthy dishes, then you're in for a treat with our Lemon Lovers Roasted Asparagus! This quick and easy recipe brings together the earthy goodness of fresh asparagus and the zesty brightness of lemon, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. With just 20 minutes from prep to plate, you'll discover how simple it is to elevate your dinner table with this delightful dish. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even roasting.
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly under cool running water, gently patting them dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Trim the tough woody ends of the asparagus by holding each spear and bending it gently until it naturally breaks at the point where the tender part meets the tough stem.
- Place the trimmed asparagus on a large rimmed baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the asparagus, then use your hands to roll and coat each spear completely with the oil.
- Sprinkle freshly grated lemon zest over the asparagus, ensuring an even distribution for maximum flavor.
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tossing the asparagus to distribute the seasonings uniformly.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the asparagus, until they are tender and slightly crisp at the tips.
- Remove from the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the roasted asparagus.
- Transfer to a serving platter and serve hot, garnishing with additional lemon zest if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Asparagus: Look for bright green spears with tightly closed tips for the best flavor and texture. Thicker spears will take a bit longer to roast, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
- Don’t Skip the Zest: Grating the lemon zest before juicing intensifies the citrus flavor in the dish. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
- Even Coating: When drizzling the olive oil, make sure to coat each asparagus spear evenly. This ensures they roast nicely and develop that delicious caramelization.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the asparagus as they roast. You want them tender yet slightly crisp, so a few minutes can make a big difference.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the roasted asparagus right out of the oven. A sprinkle of extra lemon zest right before serving can add a lovely finishing touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg