Elegant Roasted Asparagus with Olive Oil and Sea Salt
Indulge in the simple yet exquisite flavors of roasted asparagus, a dish that highlights the natural sweetness and nutty undertones of this beloved vegetable. Adapted from 'Simple Vegetarian Pleasures' by Jeanne Lemlin, this recipe transforms fresh asparagus into an elegant side dish, perfect for any occasion. The brief roast at high temperature ensures a tender crispness while enhancing its flavors, making it a delightful complement to a variety of meals. You can enjoy it as is or elevate it further with a splash of tangy vinaigrette, offering a refreshing contrast that brings your meal to life.
4
Servings
35
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Asparagus
1 lb (Trimmed and peeled the bottom 2-3 inches)
Olive Oil
1.5 tablespoons (Drizzle for roasting)
Kosher Salt
1/2 teaspoon (Sprinkle over asparagus before roasting)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2
Prepare the asparagus by cutting off the woody ends, discarding them.
3
Using a vegetable peeler, gently peel away the skin from the bottom 2-3 inches of each spear. This step will help prevent the spears from being stringy and enhances the overall texture.
4
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the sheet.
5
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the asparagus, ensuring each spear gets a good coating.
6
Sprinkle the kosher salt over the asparagus. Feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
7
Using your hands, carefully roll and toss the asparagus to ensure they are well-coated with the olive oil and salt mixture.
8
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the asparagus for 10-15 minutes. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the stalks and your preferred level of tenderness.
9
The asparagus is done when easily pierced with the tip of a knife and has taken on a slightly brown color on the tips. Keep an eye on them while roasting to prevent burning.
10
For an added touch, consider serving alongside a light vinaigrette for a refreshing acidity that complements the dish beautifully.
Nutrition Information
2g
Fat
3.5g
Carbs
2g
Protein
1.5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main vegetable used in this recipe?
The main vegetable used in this recipe is fresh asparagus.
What temperature should I preheat my oven to?
You should preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe provides 4 servings.
How long does it take to roast the asparagus?
The asparagus takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to roast, depending on the thickness of the stalks.
Why is it recommended to peel the bottom of the asparagus spears?
Peeling the bottom 2-3 inches helps prevent the spears from being stringy and enhances the overall texture.
What kind of oil is used for roasting?
The recipe calls for 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil.
How much salt is required for this dish?
You will need 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, though you can adjust this to your taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses only plant-based ingredients like asparagus and olive oil.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 35 calories.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 2 grams of protein per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content of this dish?
There are 3.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much fat is in this recipe?
Each serving contains 2 grams of fat.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
Yes, there are 1.5 grams of fiber per serving.
How do I know when the asparagus is finished cooking?
The asparagus is done when it can be easily pierced with the tip of a knife and the tips have turned slightly brown.
What should I do with the woody ends of the asparagus?
The woody ends should be cut off and discarded before preparation.
Is it necessary to line the baking sheet?
Lining the baking sheet with aluminum foil is recommended for easy cleanup.
Can I add a dressing to this dish?
Yes, serving the roasted asparagus with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing acidity that complements the flavor.
Who is the original author of the source material for this recipe?
The recipe is adapted from 'Simple Vegetarian Pleasures' by Jeanne Lemlin.
How should the asparagus be arranged on the baking sheet?
The asparagus should be arranged in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
What is the best way to coat the asparagus in oil and salt?
Use your hands to carefully roll and toss the asparagus on the baking sheet until they are well-coated.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy, vegetarian, and nutrient-dense side dish.
What type of salt is recommended?
Kosher salt is recommended for this recipe.
What is the prep time for the asparagus?
Prep involves trimming the ends and peeling the bottom few inches, which takes only a few minutes.
Can I use thick or thin asparagus stalks?
You can use either, but keep in mind that cooking time will vary based on the thickness.
What flavor profile does roasted asparagus have?
Roasting highlights the natural sweetness and nutty undertones of the vegetable.
Is this a side dish or a main course?
This is primarily intended as an elegant side dish.
Does this recipe contain any cholesterol?
Based on the nutritional data provided, the cholesterol content is negligible or zero.
Are there any specific tags for this recipe?
Tags include roasted vegetables, vegetarian, side dish, healthy, and simple recipes.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 3 main ingredients: asparagus, olive oil, and kosher salt.
What is the suggested serving size?
The recipe makes 4 servings, typically consisting of several spears per person.