Asparagus is a fat- and cholesterol-free vegetable, rich in dietary fiber, potassium, folic acid, thiamine and vitamins A, B6 and C. Select firm, bright green asparagus spears with compact, pointed tips and moist cut ends. Store asparagus in your refrigerator for up to 10 days. Fresh asparagus is available in most areas of the country during the spring months. In the off-season, you can use frozen asparagus spears. Roasting is a simple but effective cooking technique that requires few ingredients but results in flavorful, crisp-tender asparagus. Take care not to overcook asparagus, as overcooking results in loss of nutrients, color and flavor.
Step 1
Rinse asparagus under cool running water. If it appears soiled, fill a large bowl with cool water, then swish the asparagus in the water. Replace the water and repeat until no grit sinks to the bottom of the bowl.
Step 2
Trim off the thick, white ends of the asparagus with a paring knife. Alternatively, snap off the white ends.
Step 3
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 4
Measure 2 tbsp. of olive oil or canola oil into a large mixing bowl. Add 1/2 tsp. of sea salt or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then stir to blend.
Step 5
Place the asparagus into the oil mixture. Use a rubber spatula to stir gently to coat the asparagus.
Step 6
Arrange the asparagus spears in a single layer on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Roast until the asparagus is crisp-tender, about eight to 10 minutes. Shake the pan after four to five minutes so the asparagus cooks evenly.
Step 7
Transfer the asparagus to a serving platter. At this point, you can serve the asparagus, or you can top it with grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled blue cheese. Alternatively, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice accentuates the flavor of the asparagus.
Things You'll Need
- Large bowl
- Paring knife
- 2 tbsp. olive oil or canola oil
- Mixing bowl
- 1/2 tsp. sea salt or kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheet
- Serving platter
- Grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
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