Oven roasted asparagus is one of those magical dishes that makes healthy eating feel like a treat! Seriously, it’s so simple to whip up and packed with flavor. Just picture those vibrant green spears turning tender and slightly caramelized in the oven—yum! Not only is it a nutritious side dish that complements just about any meal, but it also takes minimal effort. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick roasting time, you’ll have a delicious, healthy side that’ll impress family and friends. Trust me, once you try this oven roasted asparagus, it’ll become a go-to on your dinner table!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
How to Prepare Oven Roasted Asparagus
Alright, let’s get that oven roaring and those asparagus spears ready for some delicious roasting! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important because a hot oven means perfectly roasted asparagus—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside!
While the oven’s heating up, grab your trimmed asparagus and lay them out on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer; this helps them roast evenly. Now, drizzle those lovely green spears with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. You want to coat them well, so don’t be shy! Next, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, along with salt and pepper to taste. Give them a good toss to ensure every spear is seasoned to perfection.
Now comes the fun part—roasting! Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the asparagus roast for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them, especially if your asparagus is on the thicker side; they might need a minute or two more. When they’re done, they should be tender and slightly caramelized. Serve them warm, and get ready to enjoy this simple yet flavorful side dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Healthy, packed with vitamins and low in calories
- Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand
- Enhances the natural flavor of asparagus with minimal effort
- Versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with any meal
- Leftovers taste great cold or reheated, so no waste!
Tips for Success
To ensure your oven roasted asparagus turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, pay attention to the thickness of your asparagus spears. Thicker spears may need a couple of extra minutes in the oven, while thinner ones will roast up quickly, so keep an eye on them. If you want to amp up the flavor, try adding a sprinkle of lemon zest before roasting—it’s a game changer! Also, feel free to experiment with different spices like paprika or red pepper flakes for a little kick. And remember, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give those spears room to breathe and get that lovely caramelization. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your dish to the next level!
Variations of Oven Roasted Asparagus
Now, let’s have some fun with variations! There are so many ways to jazz up your oven roasted asparagus. For a delightful twist, why not sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top during the last few minutes of roasting? It gives a wonderful savory kick! If you’re in the mood for something a bit spicier, toss in some red pepper flakes or cayenne for a nice heat. Feeling adventurous? Try adding balsamic glaze after roasting for a sweet and tangy finish. You can even mix in other veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for a colorful medley. The possibilities are endless, so go ahead and experiment!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers of your delicious oven roasted asparagus (though I doubt it!), storing them is super easy. Just place the cooled asparagus in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, just until warmed through. You can also microwave them for quick reheating, but be careful not to overdo it, or they might get soggy. Trust me, a little crispiness is key to enjoying those fabulous flavors again!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk nutrition! I want to mention that the values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a ballpark. But here’s what you can typically expect per serving of this oven roasted asparagus:
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind that these values are approximate, but they give you a good idea of how healthy this delightful side dish can be! Enjoy knowing that you’re nourishing your body while indulging in something so tasty!
FAQ Section
Got questions about oven roasted asparagus? I’m here to help! Here are some common queries I often hear:
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before roasting. They might need a bit longer in the oven, so keep an eye on them.
What can I serve with oven roasted asparagus?
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even pasta. It adds a fresh touch to any meal!
How do I know when the asparagus is done?
You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and have a slight caramelization. If they’re still too crunchy for your taste, give them a few more minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prep and season the asparagus ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to roast!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll last for about three days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat them!
For more tips on healthy cooking, check out this Healthline article on the benefits of asparagus. You can also explore more delicious recipes on our blog!
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Oven Roasted Asparagus: 5 Reasons to Love This Delightful Dish
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Oven roasted asparagus is a simple and healthy side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the asparagus on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss to coat the asparagus evenly.
- Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add lemon zest.
- Adjust roasting time based on the thickness of the asparagus.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Oven Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: oven roasted asparagus, roasted vegetables, healthy sides