Lemon roasted asparagus adds a touch of sophistication and a boatload of flavor to any meal. Plus, it’s an easy side dish that you’ll want to make over and over. This easy asparagus recipe delivers a simple method that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the earthy taste of garlic.

This post has a lot of information, including tips on the best way to prepare lemon roasted asparagus. However, if you’re in a big hurry, just click on the jump-to-recipe button beneath the title, and you’l be taken right to the top of the recipe card.

Adding Lemon and Garlic to Roasted Asparagus

So many time we think of the main dish being the only star of the meal. But there’s no reason to expect flavorless sides that are just along for the ride. We love asparagus with everything from these grilled pork chops to this absolutely delicious air fryer pork tenderloin.

Ingredients

You can find all of these ingredients at any grocery store.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh asparagus
• Olive oil (a little olive oil goes a long way!)
• Lemon zest
• Minced garlic (fresh garlic, if possible!)
• Salt (table salt, sea salt, or kosher salt)
• Black pepper

You can use frozen asparagus if that’s all you can find. But if you do, let it thaw before you begin.

How to Make Lemon Roasted Asparagus with Garlic

Start by preparing your asparagus. Hold the stalk of asparagus at both ends and bend it gently until the woody end snaps off at its natural breaking point. This is the easiest way to ensure you’re left with only the tender parts of the asparagus. If you’ve got thicker asparagus, you might want to peel the thick ends a little bit to ensure even cooking.

Preheat the oven to 400˚ F. While it’s heating up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup later. Give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Place your fresh asparagus on the baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures even roasting and that perfect crisp asparagus texture we all love.

In a small bowl (or even a plastic bag for the best way to shake and coat!), mix together a little olive oil, the zest of a whole lemon, your minced garlic, a teaspoon of salt, and a generous sprinkle of black pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the asparagus on the baking sheet. Toss the asparagus stalks around to ensure each stalk is well-coated.

Pop that tray into the high heat of the oven and roast the asparagus for about 10 minutes or until they turn a bright green and are tender to the touch.

How to Serve Roasted Asparagus

Transfer your oven-roasted asparagus to a serving platter. These tender spears are delicious as-is, but you can do more if you want.

For a little extra flair, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or even some lemon slices for garnish. Or if you like a bit of crunch, add some sliced and chopped nuts.

And if you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar takes this dish to the next level.

Tips and Tricks to Make the Best Lemon Roasted Asparagus

This basic recipe is versatile. You can add so many other ingredients to increase the flavor.

• Want a kick? Add some red pepper flakes. 
• Choose the freshest asparagus spears you can find. They should be firm and green.
• If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder works in a pinch. 
• For those who love cheese, a parmesan asparagus recipe might be your next favorite way to roast asparagus. All you have to do is sprinkle some parmesan cheese over the top.

What to Do with Leftover Roasted Asparagus

Got leftover asparagus? Store it in an airtight container and it’s great the next day. You can also store asparagus by wrapping the ends in damp paper towels and placing them in a plastic bag in the fridge.

Health Benefits of Asparagus

Asparagus is not just a tasty spring vegetable; it’s also a healthy vegetable. Packed with dietary fiber and a host of other nutrients, it’s a perfect side dish for those watching their waistline.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, asparagus is loaded with health benefits. In addition to being a great source of fiber and vitamins, it also contains potassium and other minerals that your body needs.

More Delicious Dishes to Serve with Asparagus

This lemon asparagus dish is a great side dish that pairs well with almost any main dish. 

Here are more main dishes and delicious sides to serve with it:

Chicken and Polenta – Your family or guests will think you’ve gotten all fancy when you serve this meal. It’s super easy but has an air of elegance. Oh, and it tastes wonderful too!

Hobo Casserole – For more down-to-earth comfort food, make this hobo casserole to go with your asparagus. It will quickly become a family favorite.

Baked Beef Ribs – These are the perfect choice when you want your dinner to be an explosion of flavors from every direction. 

Pecan Crusted Fish – One of our favorite ways to eat fish is to coat the fillets in crushed pecans. This recipe is easy and packs a flavorful punch.

Mac and Cheese Casserole – Here’s another comfort food that almost everyone loves. It’s the perfect balance to go with lemon roasted asparagus.

Twice Baked Potato Casserole – Creamy and smooth but with all of the flavors you expect from a loaded baked potato, this dish is absolutely delicious!

Actually, almost any of your favorite main dishes and sides will go with this lemon roasted asparagus. It’s a versatile dish that adds color, flavor, and nutrition to your family meal or dinner party menu.

Easy Roasted Asparagus

When asparagus season rolls around, this lemon roasted asparagus with garlic is a go-to in my house. It’s a simple side dish made with simple ingredients, yet the flavors are anything but basic. Whether you’re new to cooking asparagus or looking for a twist on your usual method, give this recipe a try.

If you’re in the mood for this delicious dish when it’s not in season, you can use frozen asparagus. It still turns out deliciously flavored tender stalks of goodness.

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