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Oven-Roasted Garlic Asparagus

This dish features fresh asparagus spears roasted at high heat with olive oil and thin slices of garlic, resulting in tender, vibrant green vegetables with smoky, caramelized edges. The roasting process amplifies their natural sweetness and imparts a subtle smoky flavor, creating an appealing texture and aroma. Finished with a splash of lemon, it’s a simple yet flavorful side that celebrates the freshness of spring produce.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 bunch bunch fresh asparagus trimmed of woody ends
  • 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality, extra virgin preferred
  • to taste salt generous pinch
  • freshly cracked black pepper optional, for finishing
  • 1 lemon lemon for squeezing after roasting

Equipment

  • Rimmed baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Knife and chopping board

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus, ensuring each spear is tender and uniform in size for even roasting.
  3. Place the trimmed asparagus in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently to coat each spear evenly.
  4. Add the thinly sliced garlic and a generous pinch of salt. Toss again to distribute the garlic evenly among the spears.
  5. Arrange the coated asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out to ensure they roast rather than steam.
  6. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes, shaking the pan or turning the spears halfway through, until they are bright green with slight charring on the tips and fragrant with garlic.
  7. Remove the asparagus from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot spears for a bright, fresh finish.
  8. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors and smoky aroma.

Notes

Feel free to add a sprinkle of Parmesan or nutritional yeast during the last minute of roasting for extra umami. For a spicy kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting.