Oven-roasted asparagus
Oven-roasted asparagus highlights the natural, earthy flavours of this popular seasonal vegetable. Lightly roasted for a tender crunch, it is paired with a creamy orange sauce that brings a zesty, refreshing twist. Perfect as a side for any meal, this recipe adds a touch of citrus elegance to the table, making it a delightful choice for asparagus lovers.
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Ingredients
Asparagus
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Asparagus
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900 g |
|---|---|
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Olive oil
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|
|
Salt
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|
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Black pepper
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Orange sauce
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Creme fraiche
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200 g |
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Orange, zested and juiced
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1 |
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Honey
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1 tsp |
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Salt
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¼ tsp |
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Black pepper
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¼ tsp |
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Fresh mint, chopped
|
2 tbsp |
Instructions
Asparagus
Orange sauce
Recommended information
Serving suggestion
Roast in a single layer
Arrange the spears in a single layer on your baking sheet with a bit of space between them to ensure they roast evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming, which prevents the tasty char. If you are preparing a large portion, feel free to use multiple baking sheets. That way, you can spread them out evenly without worrying about overcrowding. Just remember to keep an eye on them and switch the baking sheets around so all the asparagus get the desired charred look.
Choose thinner asparagus stalks
Choose thinner asparagus to get a nice, crisp texture when roasted. Make sure the woody ends are removed, leaving the tender parts for the best results. Roasting times will vary depending on the thickness of the stalks: thinner stalks cook faster, while thicker ones take longer.
Fresh green asparagus and ripe oranges
Fresh green asparagus and ripe oranges pack the most flavour, so spend some time finding the best-looking ones. Pick firm asparagus stalks with closed tips. Also, the best green asparagus should be bright and vibrant. Store asparagus in a cool place and use it as soon as possible to maintain its freshness. Select oranges with vibrant colour and a slight give when pressed. Taking some time to find the right ones will ultimately benefit you because ripe oranges give the sauce more pronounced flavours.
FAQ: Questions about oven-roasted asparagus
Explore our answers to these frequently asked questions about oven-roasted asparagus to learn how to perfect your roasting technique and store leftovers effectively.
How do I know when my asparagus is perfectly roasted?
Asparagus is ready when the stalks are tender, slightly charred, and easy to pierce with a fork. When picked up, they should bend gently, showing they are cooked to perfection.
How should I trim asparagus for roasting?
Remove the woody ends by cutting them off with a knife or snapping the stalks by hand where they naturally break. You are then left with the tender parts of the asparagus, which are great for roasting.
Why should I choose roasted asparagus over steaming it?
Roasting adds a char and crispness that intensifies the asparagus' natural flavour, while steaming gives the veggie a softer texture. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper to make roasting asparagus quick and straightforward while bringing out its natural taste.
How can I store leftover oven-roasted asparagus?
Store leftover oven-roasted asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven to restore the texture, as microwaving may make it soggy. See if you can avoid freezing the vegetable as it can make the asparagus mushy.
Nutritional values
Nutritional value, per
831 Kcal
| Fibre | 25 gram fibers |
| Protein | 23.8 gram |
| Carbohydrates | 45.4 gram |
| Fat | 62.2 gram |
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Make super quick oven-roasted asparagus
Oven-roasted asparagus is one of the quickest, simplest, and most delicious ways to enjoy this vegetable. Roasting adds a golden finish to the stalks, highlighting their irresistible crisp texture and their naturally earthy sweetness. You can almost imagine the crunch that comes from taking a bite of roasted asparagus coated in a creamy orange sauce. Its simplicity makes it an excellent companion for weeknight dinners or special occasions without feeling overly elaborate.
For more asparagus recipes, try our asparagus quiche with sweet potato crust for a filling brunch option, the delicious asparagus potato salad, or a comforting bowl of asparagus soup. These recipes highlight how versatile asparagus can be in the kitchen.
Served with zesty, creamy orange sauce
The creamy orange sauce serves as a perfectly tangy complement to the oven-roasted asparagus. The combination of crème fraiche, fresh orange juice, and a touch of honey adds richness and a hint of sweetness. Fresh mint ties the flavours together, giving it a cool, elegant finish.
An easy side or appealing appetiser
Our recipe for oven-roasted asparagus is a great side dish to serve with main dishes. It works alongside grilled sea bass, roasted rack of lamb, or sirloin steak with garlic butter. With sweet, earthy, and zesty notes, asparagus goes well with pretty much all types of meat.
Take chicken or pork, for example. Here, the asparagus will provide a light and refreshing contrast. Roasted asparagus brings a touch of refinement and works with strong, savoury flavours, whether served as a light appetiser or main course.
Make changes of your own
There are endless ways to customise oven-roasted asparagus to suit your tastes. A sprinkle of lemon zest adds brightness, while grated Parmesan offers a nutty, slightly savoury edge. Fresh garlic brings depth, and red pepper flakes add a subtle kick of heat.
For a more decadent finish, drizzle balsamic reduction or melt a pat of butter over the top. Toppings like toasted almonds or breadcrumbs create a satisfying crunch, making it even more enjoyable.
