Easy Roasted Asparagus (+ tips and flavor variations)
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If you haven’t tried cooking asparagus in the oven yet, get ready to fall in love with this roasted asparagus recipe. It’s speedy and easy – and delivers far more flavor than steaming ever could. I’ll walk you through the best method and share plenty of tips and seasoning ideas. Read on!
If you’re not roasting your asparagus yet, you’re missing out on its very best form. I’ve been roasting mine for years, and it’s hands-down my favorite way to bring out that deep, savory flavor while keeping the spears tender with just the right bite. Plus, if the oven’s already on for dinner, popping a tray of asparagus in is far easier than pulling out a skillet. I’ll walk you through exactly how to make it perfect every time.
This roasted asparagus recipe is one I come back to again and again because it’s so simple and reliable. It takes about five minutes of prep, pairs well with just about any main, and is endlessly customizable with a pinch of spices if you’re feeling fancy. Best of all, while the asparagus roasts, your hands are free to finish the rest of dinner—or just relax. It’s one of those staple recipes you’ll memorize after the first go.
Also, try our sauteed asparagus!
How to store asparagus
Asparagus is best stored in the crisper in your fridge. I love these mesh produce bags for storing all veggies, including asparagus. If you need to store asparagus for more than 4-5 days, wrap a damp paper towel around the tips of the spears to keep them fresh longer.
How to prep asparagus
The ends of asparagus can be tough and woody. While you can cut the ends, cutting them does not always remove the woody part. The best way to prepare asparagus is to snap off the ends. Hold a spear with one hand at the very bottom and the other in the middle. Bend the asparagus until it snaps. It will snap just above the woody part. If it does not snap easily, move your hand slightly closer to the tip and try again.
There is something very satisfying about snapping the ends off of asparagus. It’s fun!
What to serve with roasted asparagus
I love making roasted asparagus as it’s a hands-off side dish that allows you to focus on cooking the rest of the meal. Most often, I’ll start dinner by putting some potatoes into the oven. This smoky roast potatoes recipe is a favorite. Next, I’ll prep one of these main course recipes and cook them alongside the potatoes:
Once the main dish is in the oven, I’ll prep the roasted asparagus and put it into the oven 10 minutes before the potatoes and meat are ready.
Pro tip: either use a small baking sheet for both the potatoes and asparagus OR use a large one for the potatoes then push them to one side and add the asparagus beside them.
Best Roasted Asparagus Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon EACH: sea salt and pepper
Optional Seasonings
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese + lemon slices + a pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1 finely minced garlic clove + a pinch of oregano
- ¼ teaspoon each: garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning + lemon slices
- A teaspoon of butter + a handful of sliced almonds (add in the last 5 minutes of cooking)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Snap the ends off the asparagus, then lay them on a baking sheet.1 lb asparagus
- Drizzle the oil and sprinkle the salt and pepper over the top. Add any of the optional seasonings. Toss the asparagus so that they are covered in the oil.1 teaspoon olive oil, ¼ teaspoon EACH: sea salt and pepper
- Roast the asparagus in the oven for 9-15 minutes (see notes) or until they are tender. Serve right away.
Notes
- Thin asparagus: 9-10 minutes
- Medium asparagus: 11-13 minutes
- Thick asparagus: 14-15 minutes
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here.
More asparagus recipes to try
For more inspiration, check out all of our side dish recipes!
I’ve only ever steamed asparagus before and was looking for something new to do with them. This was perfect. Thank you!
That’s wonderful to hear! Thanks, Manny!