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- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - Zest of 1 lemon - Juice of 1 lemon - 1 teaspoon sea salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional) When choosing asparagus, look for bright green stalks. They should feel firm and crisp. Avoid any that appear limp or have dark spots. For this recipe, the asparagus should be trimmed well. This means cutting off the tough ends, usually about 4-5 inches from the bottom. You want only the tender part. The flavorings are where this dish shines. Olive oil brings richness, while garlic adds a strong aroma. The lemon zest and juice offer a refreshing zing. This combination makes the dish bright and lively. For seasoning, sea salt enhances the natural flavors. Black pepper gives a mild heat, while red pepper flakes can add more spice if you like. If you want to elevate the dish, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top. It melts beautifully and adds a savory touch. For more details, check the Full Recipe. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). 2. Rinse and trim the asparagus. Start by washing it under cool water. Cut off the tough ends, leaving about 4-5 inches of the tender stalk. 3. Whisk together the lemon garlic mixture. In a bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, the zest and juice of 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like heat. 4. Toss the asparagus with the mixture. Add the trimmed asparagus to the bowl. Make sure every spear gets a nice coat of that zesty mixture. 5. Spread asparagus on a baking sheet. Lay the coated asparagus in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. 6. Roast asparagus for 12-15 minutes. Check for that vibrant color and tender-crisp texture. 7. Add cheese during the last minutes of roasting. If you're using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the asparagus in the last 2 minutes for a melty finish. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus as a delightful side dish with any meal. For the full recipe, check the details mentioned above. When choosing asparagus, look for bright green stalks. The tips should be firm and closed. If the stalks bend but do not break, they are fresh. Avoid any that are wilted or yellow. Fresh asparagus makes all the difference in taste and texture. Roasting asparagus is simple. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the asparagus evenly on the baking sheet. Roast for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it. You want the asparagus to be vibrant in color and tender-crisp. You can test it by piercing a stalk with a fork. If it goes in easily, it's done! Lemon garlic roasted asparagus shines as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats like chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside pasta or rice. For a great twist, add it to salads or grain bowls for a fresh crunch. {{image_2}} You can easily change the flavor of your Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus. Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary. These herbs bring a fresh twist. Just sprinkle a little on before roasting. You’ll be amazed at how a small change makes a big difference. If you want to switch up the cheese, go for feta or goat cheese. These cheeses offer a creamy, tangy flavor that pairs well with asparagus. Sprinkle them on just before serving. This will add a rich taste that everyone will love. For a little kick, use cayenne pepper instead of red pepper flakes. A pinch can change the heat level. Adjust it to your taste. This small swap can turn your dish into a spicy delight. Store your Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to cool it down before sealing. This way, it keeps its great flavor and texture. If you want to freeze it, first blanch the asparagus. Dunk it in boiling water for a minute, then transfer it to ice water. This helps preserve the color and taste. Once cooled, drain and pack it into freezer bags. You can store it for up to three months. Reheating is easy! The best way to bring back its crispness is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and heat the asparagus for about 10 minutes. This keeps it tasty and fresh. If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but it might lose some crunch. For the full recipe, check out the recipe section. Fresh asparagus is recommended for optimal texture. Frozen asparagus may become mushy. Fresh spears hold their shape and crunch better. If you can find fresh, choose it for this dish. It should be vibrant in color and tender-crisp. Look for a bright green hue. You can test it by poking a spear with a fork. It should give a little but not be soft. Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. These nutrients support your immune system and promote healthy skin. Eating asparagus can aid digestion and boost overall health. Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as a topping for salads. This dish adds a fresh flavor to any meal. The lemon and garlic pair well with many proteins. Enjoy this asparagus as a vibrant side that enhances your dining experience. In this post, I shared a simple recipe for Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus. We covered choosing fresh asparagus, mixing key ingredients, and roasting techniques. I also discussed storage tips and serving ideas. Remember, fresh asparagus shines best with lemon and garlic. Try different herbs and cheeses to make it your own. Enjoy this healthy side dish and explore how it complements various meals. Happy cooking!

- Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus

Enjoy a burst of flavor with this Zesty Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus recipe! Perfect as a side dish or a light snack, it's easy to prepare with fresh asparagus, olive oil, garlic, and a touch of lemon for a delightful twist. In just 25 minutes, you'll have a vibrant dish that's not only healthy but also full of taste. Click through to explore this simple recipe and elevate your meals today!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon sea salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

    Rinse the asparagus under cool water, then trim the tough ends, leaving about 4-5 inches of the tender stalk.

      In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

        Add the trimmed asparagus to the bowl, tossing well to coat each spear evenly with the lemon garlic mixture.

          Spread the coated asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

            Roast in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is vibrant in color and tender-crisp.

              If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the asparagus in the last 2 minutes of roasting for a melty finish.

                Remove from the oven, let cool for just a minute, and then serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4