Get ready to transform the humble asparagus into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! This Lemon Butter Roasted Asparagus is not just a side dish—it's a flavor explosion that combines the earthy richness of perfectly roasted asparagus with the bright, zesty kick of fresh lemon and the luxurious smoothness of melted butter. In just 20 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality vegetable dish that's so irresistible, even veggie skeptics will be coming back for more.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even roasting.
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly under cool running water, then pat dry completely with clean kitchen towels or paper towels to ensure proper roasting.
- Trim the woody ends of the asparagus by holding each spear and gently bending until the tough portion naturally snaps off, creating uniform spears.
- Arrange the trimmed asparagus in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper caramelization.
- Melt the butter in a small microwave-safe bowl or in a small saucepan over low heat until completely liquefied.
- Zest the entire lemon using a microplane or fine grater, then juice the same lemon, collecting the juice in a separate small bowl.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the asparagus spears, then sprinkle with lemon zest, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Gently toss the asparagus to ensure even coating with butter and seasonings, using tongs or your hands.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the asparagus, until the spears are tender and slightly crisp at the edges.
- Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with fresh lemon juice for a bright, citrusy finish.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with additional lemon zest if desired, serving hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Asparagus: Look for bright green, firm spears with tight, compact tips. Thinner spears tend to be more tender and cook faster.
- Drying is Key: Make sure to thoroughly pat your asparagus dry before roasting. Excess moisture will prevent proper caramelization and crispy edges.
- Even Spacing Matters: Spread asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they're not overcrowded. This allows each spear to roast evenly and develop those delicious crispy edges.
- Watch Your Roasting Time: Asparagus thickness varies, so adjust cooking time accordingly. Thinner spears might need 10-12 minutes, while thicker ones could take up to 15 minutes.
- Serve Immediately: Roasted asparagus is best enjoyed hot right out of the oven when it's at its most crisp and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
