Roasted asparagus with lemon, honey, and garlic is a delectable side dish that beautifully complements any main course. The natural sweetness of asparagus is enhanced by a hint of honey, while lemon and garlic add a tangy kick. This simple yet flavorful dish is not only appetizing but also packed with nutrition.
All the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in most kitchens. However, when purchasing asparagus at the supermarket, look for firm, bright green stalks with tight tips. If the tips are starting to turn yellow or the stems are particularly woody, the asparagus may be past its prime.
Ingredients for Roasted Asparagus with Lemon, Honey, and Garlic
Asparagus: A nutrient-dense food high in folic acid and packed with essential vitamins.
Olive oil: Used for roasting the asparagus. It not only adds flavor but also helps in roasting.
Lemon: Adds a tangy flavor that can cut through the sweetness of the asparagus and honey.
Honey: Balances the garlic and lemon and adds a hint of sweetness to the dish.
Garlic: Gives the dish a savory edge and depth of flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Used for seasoning.
One reader, Dorry Russo says:
This roasted asparagus recipe is a game-changer! The combination of lemon, honey, and garlic creates a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the asparagus. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. I highly recommend trying it out - you won't be disappointed!
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Roasted Asparagus
How to prepare asparagus: Break off the tough ends of the asparagus by holding the base and snapping it where it naturally breaks. This removes the woody part and ensures the asparagus is tender.
How to make the lemon, honey, and garlic dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and minced garlic until well combined. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your preference.
How to roast the asparagus: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Toss the asparagus with the prepared lemon, honey, and garlic dressing until evenly coated. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 10 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and lightly caramelized. Adjust the roasting time based on the thickness of the asparagus spears.
How To Make Roasted Lemon Honey Garlic Asparagus
Tender inside and crisp on the outside, this garlic asparagus is marinated in a lemon and honey mix, for a sweet-tangy side to any meal!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1bunchasparagus
- 2tbspolive oil
- ½lemon juice
- 2tbsphoney
- 3garlic cloves,minced
- salt and pepper
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Break off the ends of asparagus.
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In a large bowl, add the asparagus.
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In a small bowl, whisk in the olive oil, lemon, honey, garlic. Pour over the asparagus and toss to coat.
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Lay in a single layer on a baking sheet. Add salt and pepper to taste.
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Roast for about 10 minutes, more or less depending on the size of the asparagus.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 108.21kcal
- Fat: 6.85g
- Saturated Fat: 0.96g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.93g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.75g
- Carbohydrates: 12.16g
- Fiber: 1.34g
- Sugar: 9.86g
- Protein: 1.47g
- Sodium: 191.55mg
- Calcium: 19.93mg
- Potassium: 138.43mg
- Iron: 1.36mg
- Vitamin A: 21.58µg
- Vitamin C: 6.25mg
Pro Tip for Achieving Perfectly Crisp Roasted Asparagus
When roasting asparagus, it's important to not overcrowd the baking sheet. Giving each spear enough space ensures that they roast evenly and get a nice caramelization. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which can make the asparagus soggy rather than crisp.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Roasted Asparagus with Lemon, Honey, and Garlic
Prep ahead: Wash and trim the asparagus in advance to cut down on prep time when you're ready to cook.
One-pan wonder: Consider using a sheet pan or roasting pan to cook the asparagus alongside other dishes to save time and energy.
Quick and easy: Opt for pre-minced garlic or pre-squeezed lemon juice to streamline the preparation process.
Batch cooking: Roast a larger quantity of asparagus at once and store the leftovers for future meals to save time on cooking.
Efficient seasoning: Combine the olive oil, lemon, honey, and garlic in a jar or container ahead of time for a quick and easy seasoning mix.
Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Lemon Honey Garlic Asparagus Recipe
- asparagus - Substitute with green beans: Green beans have a similar texture and can be roasted with the same flavors for a delicious alternative.
- olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a great alternative for roasting.
- lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar adds a tangy acidity similar to lemon juice and complements the sweetness of honey.
- honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and caramelization when roasted with vegetables.
- garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic and can complement the dish well.
Presentation Ideas for Roasted Asparagus with Lemon, Honey, and Garlic
Elevate the asparagus: Arrange the roasted asparagus in a crisscross pattern on the plate to create height and visual interest.
Drizzle with lemon-honey reduction: Create a delicate drizzle of the lemon-honey reduction around the asparagus, using a squeeze bottle for precision.
Garnish with microgreens: Sprinkle a few vibrant microgreens over the asparagus to add a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Add a sprinkle of lemon zest: Grate a touch of fresh lemon zest over the dish to enhance the citrus aroma and provide a burst of brightness.
Serve on a sleek, modern plate: Choose a minimalist, high-quality plate to showcase the vibrant colors and elegant simplicity of the dish.
Accent with edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers strategically around the asparagus to add a touch of elegance and a subtle floral note.
Enhance with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt: Finish the dish with a delicate sprinkle of flaky sea salt to elevate the flavors and add a satisfying crunch.
Accompany with a lemon wedge: Serve the dish with a small lemon wedge on the side, allowing guests to customize the level of citrus flavor to their preference.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Roasted Asparagus
- Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients. It comes in various sizes and materials.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together. It typically has a long handle and a series of loops or wires.
Storing and Freezing Roasted Asparagus for Later Use
Let the roasted asparagus cool completely before storing or freezing. This will help prevent the asparagus from becoming soggy and maintain its texture.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled asparagus in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you want to freeze the roasted asparagus, follow these steps:
- Arrange the cooled asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour, or until the asparagus is frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen asparagus to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen roasted asparagus can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat the asparagus in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave the asparagus for a quick and easy side dish.
Keep in mind that the texture of the asparagus may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the delicious combination of lemon, honey, and garlic will still make it a tasty and satisfying addition to any meal.
How To Reheat Leftover Roasted Asparagus
The best way to reheat leftover roasted asparagus is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little extra olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Roast for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
Another option is to reheat the asparagus in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the asparagus and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly crispy. You can also add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to create some steam and prevent the asparagus from drying out.
If you're in a hurry, you can reheat the asparagus in the microwave. Place the asparagus in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the asparagus, as it can quickly become mushy in the microwave.
For a cold option, you can chop up the leftover roasted asparagus and add it to a salad. The combination of the slightly charred asparagus with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette makes for a delicious and refreshing lunch.
If you have leftover garlic and honey from the original recipe, you can create a quick glaze to brush over the reheated asparagus. Simply mix together equal parts honey and lemon juice, and add a minced clove of garlic. Brush the glaze over the hot asparagus for an extra burst of flavor.
Interesting Trivia About Asparagus
Roasted asparagus with lemon, honey, and garlic recipe is a delicious and healthy dish. Asparagus is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It's also low in calories and packed with flavor. The combination of lemon, honey, and garlic adds a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors to the roasted asparagus. This dish is not only tasty but also easy to prepare, making it a great addition to any meal. Plus, the asparagus retains its nutrients when roasted, making it a nutritious choice. Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious roasted asparagus dish as a side or a main course.
Budget-Friendly: Roasted Asparagus with Lemon, Honey, and Garlic
The cost-effectiveness of this roasted asparagus with lemon, honey, and garlic recipe is quite favorable. Asparagus is a reasonably priced vegetable, and the additional ingredients like olive oil, lemon, honey, and garlic are commonly found in most households. The total cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $10. This dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and nutritional benefits, making it a solid addition to any meal. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its simplicity, taste, and affordability.
Is This Roasted Asparagus Recipe Healthy?
This roasted asparagus recipe is a healthy and delicious side dish. Here's why:
- Asparagus is a nutrient-dense vegetable, packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate and fiber
- Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants
- Lemon juice adds vitamin C and helps the body absorb iron from the asparagus
- Garlic offers antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Honey, used in moderation, can provide antioxidants and may help with seasonal allergies
However, there are a few ways to make this recipe even healthier:
- Use raw honey instead of processed honey for added enzymes and nutrients
- Reduce the amount of honey to lower the sugar content
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a metabolism boost and extra antioxidants
- Sprinkle on some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and B vitamins
- Experiment with other spices like smoked paprika or cumin for variety and added health benefits
Editor's Opinion: Why I Love This Roasted Asparagus Recipe
This roasted asparagus with lemon, honey, and garlic recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The asparagus is perfectly roasted to bring out its natural sweetness, while the tangy lemon, sweet honey, and aromatic garlic create a harmonious balance. The dish is simple to prepare, yet the flavors are complex and satisfying. It's a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, making it a great addition to any meal. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant and delicious taste.
Why trust this Roasted Lemon Honey Garlic Asparagus Recipe:
This roasted asparagus with lemon, honey, and garlic recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the asparagus, while the lemon adds a refreshing citrusy zing. The honey provides a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory garlic perfectly. This recipe's simplicity and use of fresh, wholesome ingredients inspire trust, promising a dish that's both delicious and nourishing. With asparagus as the star, this recipe celebrates seasonal produce and encourages a healthy, flavorful approach to cooking.
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