LEMON GARLIC ROASTED ASPARAGUS

It would be easy for a chef searching for the perfect way to liven up their table by overlooking vegetable dishes. While they’re a tasty classic, veggies don’t always seem inspired. But sometimes, it’s the simplest flavors that make the most delightful combinations and bring a refreshing taste to a favorite like roast asparagus. 

For this dish, you’ll use the fragrant pantry staples of lemon and garlic to enhance the natural deliciousness of roasted fresh asparagus stalks, creating a new sensory and culinary experience from this seemingly basic combination. The best part is that to achieve star results, the preparation takes hardly any time at all!


Preparation

Because of the simplicity of this dish and its ingredients, using fresh and local items of the highest possible quality will truly make or break this recipe. If you reside in zones 8-11, homegrown lemons can add that special touch. Staying as close to home as possible when sourcing your ingredients will only serve to add the best, most unique flavors to your table.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh asparagus stalks, evenly trimmed with tough ends removed
  • 1 ½ tablespoon of olive or avocado oil
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed 
  • Juice and zest from ½ lemon


Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400℉
  2. Trim all the asparagus spears to remove the tough ends by slicing or snapping where the green turns to white
  3. Combine the oil, salt, pepper, and crushed garlic to make the garlic oil
  4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place trimmed asparagus spears evenly across the baking sheet
  5. Brush the spears with garlic oil mixture using a pastry brush
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes, or until sizzling and crisping on the ends
  7. Toss the asparagus spears with the juice and zest from ½ a lemon, then serve

Takeaway

This easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for weeknight meals and special occasions. The flavors and simplicity can complement any main dish, from roast chicken to pasta to fish. Asparagus spears are sophisticated enough for discerning adults at a dinner party and capable of serving as kid-friendly finger food at daily dinner!

If you enjoyed this recipe and want to learn more about creating your food forest where you can harvest lemons, asparagus, and beyond, please contact us.


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