20 minutes
A simple and elegant side dish that highlights the natural flavors of asparagus, enhanced by roasting to achieve a caramelized, savory treat.
Asparagus, Trimmed
0 lb
Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Drizzled
tablespoons
to taste
to taste
Fresh Thyme Leaves, Sprinkled
tablespoons
Lemon Juice, Freshly Squeezed
tablespoons
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
2. Prepare the Asparagus
Arrange the asparagus on a baking sheet coated with extra virgin olive oil. Drizzle additional olive oil over the asparagus and toss to coat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Roast the Asparagus
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the asparagus for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
4. Garnish and Serve
Remove the asparagus from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves. If desired, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty flavor. Serve immediately.
Look for firm, bright green asparagus with tightly closed tips. Thickness is a matter of preference, but remember that thicker stalks may take longer to cook and have a meatier texture, while thinner stalks are more delicate and cook faster.
Keep a close eye on your asparagus. Depending on the thickness, it should take between 10-15 minutes. You're aiming for al dente – tender with a slight bite.
Coat the asparagus lightly with extra virgin olive oil, which has a high smoke point and adds a subtle flavor. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural flavors. Experiment with additional seasonings like minced garlic, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Roast the asparagus in a preheated oven at a high temperature, around 400°F (205°C). This will help achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping the insides tender but not mushy.
Wash the asparagus thoroughly to remove any grit. Snap off the woody ends where they naturally break when bent. This ensures you're left with the most tender parts of the stalks.
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