Crispy Roasted Asparagus
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5
Crispy Roasted Asparagus
Description
The Crispy Roasted Asparagus recipe focuses on simple preparation and high-heat roasting to get a caramelized crispy texture on the tips. The asparagus is trimmed and peeled on the lower half to remove fibrous parts, then coated evenly with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like garlic powder and Parmesan cheese. Roasting at 450°F followed by a brief broil crisps the tips without burning. This method results in asparagus spears that offer a pleasant bite with deeper roasted flavors and a slight nutty aroma from the cheese and spices.
This asparagus can be served as a side dish complementing a variety of main courses or enjoyed as a warm vegetable snack. Its flavor pairs well with fresh lemon zest, spicy mayo, or herb dressings if you choose to add topping variations. The method suits spring season asparagus for best taste and budget.
The recipe notes highlight the importance of monitoring the roasting and broiling process to avoid burning and suggest alternative cooking at a lower temperature for less hands-on timing. Using a sturdy metal pan without parchment or foil helps achieve the best browning and texture. Tossing halfway through cooking promotes even crispness.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. asparagus spears
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese optional, grated
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. (see note below about high temperature). For best results, place the top oven rack in the top ⅓ of your oven.
- To prepare the 1 lb. asparagus spears, after washing them, cut the very bottom of the end off so they are all evenly sized. Use a vegetable peeler to peel the outer layer off of the lower half of the asparagus, to remove the fibrous tough layer and to make them an even thickness.
- Place the prepared asparagus spears on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with about 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder, if using (or other spices/seasonings you prefer). Use your hands to make sure each asparagus spear is coated evenly in the oil and spices, then spread out so they aren't touching each other on the baking sheet.
- Roast for 10 minutes on the top rack. Turn the asparagus (using a spatula or tongs or just carefully shaking the pan a bit). Now, broil for another 3-5 minutes, or until asparagus is nice and browned on the outside. Keep an eye on them so they don't burn!
- Serve as is, or sprinkle with the 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese and drizzle with the 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (see notes for variations).
Notes
- Monitor the roasting and broiling closely to get well-browned but not burnt asparagus tips.
- For easier preparation, roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes without broiling, flipping halfway.
- Season asparagus to taste before roasting; lemon zest or fresh herbs can be added after cooking.
- Use a metal baking sheet directly for better heat conduction and crispiness rather than parchment paper.
- Opt for firm, in-season asparagus for optimal texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 55 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 55kcal | 3% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4g | 2% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Sodium | 293mg | 12% |
| Potassium | 235mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 858IU | 17% |
| Vitamin C | 6mg | 7% |
| Calcium | 28mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.