Zesty Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette
Experience the vibrant flavors of spring with this Zesty Roasted Asparagus topped with a refreshing Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette. This simple yet elegant dish celebrates fresh asparagus, roasted to perfection for a tender yet slightly crisp texture. The brightness of fresh lemon juice combined with the tangy kick of Dijon mustard make for a mouthwatering vinaigrette that elevates the taste of the asparagus. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a delightful side dish for any meal, this recipe is easily adaptable and can be enjoyed warm or chilled. Impress your guests with its simplicity and fresh flavors - a must-try for every vegetable lover!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh Asparagus
3/4 lb (washed and woody stems removed)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tablespoons (for roasting asparagus)
Kosher Salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Freshly Ground Black Pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Dijon Mustard
1/2 teaspoon (for vinaigrette)
Lemon Juice
from 1/2 lemon (freshly squeezed for vinaigrette)
Olive Oil
1 tablespoon (for vinaigrette)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Carefully wash the asparagus under cold water to remove any residual sand or dirt. To prepare the asparagus, take each stalk in both hands and gently bend it until it snaps; this will remove the woody end. Pat the asparagus dry with a clean kitchen towel.
3
In a large mixing bowl, toss the asparagus with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, ensuring each stalk is evenly coated. Generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4
Arrange the seasoned asparagus on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Roast in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender but still retains a firm bite. If using particularly thin stalks, monitor them closely to avoid over-roasting.
5
While the asparagus is roasting, prepare the lemon Dijon vinaigrette. In a small mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together ½ teaspoon of Dijon mustard and the freshly squeezed juice from ½ of a lemon.
6
Slowly drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsified dressing. Season the vinaigrette with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7
Once the asparagus is done roasting, transfer it to a serving platter and drizzle with the lemon Dijon vinaigrette. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the asparagus is well-coated. Optionally, garnish with lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
8
Serve immediately while warm, or allow to cool and serve chilled, as desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette?
It is a vibrant spring side dish featuring fresh asparagus roasted until tender-crisp and topped with a tangy lemon and mustard dressing.
How do I prepare the asparagus for roasting?
Wash the stalks under cold water, snap off the woody ends by hand, and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
What is the recommended roasting temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C) for optimal roasting.
How long does it take to roast the asparagus?
It typically takes about 10 minutes, though thinner stalks may require less time.
What are the ingredients for the Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette consists of Dijon mustard, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, all the ingredients including olive oil, lemon, and mustard are plant-based.
Is the Zesty Roasted Asparagus recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I serve this dish cold?
Yes, the dish can be served immediately while warm or allowed to cool and served chilled.
How much asparagus is needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3/4 lb of fresh asparagus.
What type of mustard should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for Dijon mustard to provide a tangy kick.
How do I remove the woody ends of the asparagus?
Take each stalk in both hands and gently bend it until it snaps naturally; the break point removes the tough end.
How much olive oil is used for roasting?
You will need 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to coat the stalks before roasting.
What seasoning is used for the asparagus?
The stalks are seasoned with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
How should I arrange the asparagus on the baking sheet?
Arrange them in a single layer and ensure they are not overcrowded for even cooking.
How do I make the vinaigrette emulsified?
Vigorously whisk the mustard and lemon juice, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk.
Can I add a garnish to the finished dish?
Yes, lemon zest is a recommended optional garnish for an extra burst of flavor.
What texture should the roasted asparagus have?
It should be tender but still retain a slightly crisp, firm bite.
How much lemon juice is required?
The juice from 1/2 of a lemon is used for the vinaigrette.
How much oil goes into the dressing itself?
One tablespoon of olive oil is used to create the vinaigrette.
Is it okay to use thin asparagus stalks?
Yes, but you should monitor them closely as they roast faster than thicker stalks.
Is this recipe good for picnics?
Yes, it is highly portable and can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled.
Do I need to peel the asparagus?
No, snapping off the woody ends is sufficient for this roasting method.
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can whisk the vinaigrette together while the asparagus is in the oven.
What is the purpose of tossing the asparagus in a bowl first?
It ensures that every stalk is evenly coated with the olive oil and seasonings.
What kind of salt is best for this recipe?
Kosher salt is recommended for seasoning both the stalks and the vinaigrette.
Does this recipe contain cholesterol?
No, the recipe ingredients are cholesterol-free.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor brightness.
What type of olive oil is recommended?
Extra virgin olive oil is suggested for its superior flavor profile.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
How do I serve the finished dish?
Transfer the roasted asparagus to a platter, drizzle with the dressing, and toss gently to coat.