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Lemon Garlic Asparagus Recipe

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4.3 from 11 reviews

A quick and flavorful Lemon Garlic Asparagus recipe that features tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with garlic, olive oil, and fresh lemon zest and juice. This simple side dish is ready in just 15 minutes and pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 lb asparagus, washed and trimmed

Seasonings & Oils

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, slightly smashed
  • Zest from 1 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Juice from 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F to prepare for roasting the asparagus.
  2. Trim Asparagus: Hold each asparagus spear between your fingertips and bend until it naturally snaps about 1-2 inches from the bottom. Repeat this for the entire pound to remove tough ends.
  3. Arrange on Sheet Pan: Place the trimmed asparagus and smashed garlic cloves evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Add Seasonings: Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and garlic. Sprinkle the lemon zest along with salt and pepper to taste on top.
  5. Toss to Coat: Gently toss the asparagus and garlic on the sheet pan to ensure even coating of oil and seasonings.
  6. Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the asparagus ends are crisp and the stalks are slightly tender.
  7. Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove the asparagus from the oven and toss with fresh lemon juice just before serving for a bright and fresh flavor.

Notes

  • For a more intense garlic flavor, finely mince the garlic instead of smashing.
  • You can substitute lemon zest with orange or lime zest for a different citrus twist.
  • Make sure to arrange the asparagus in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor; bottled lemon juice may taste different.
  • This dish pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a vegetarian meal.