We wanted to bring you the very best way to prepare perfectly tender asparagus with maximum flavor, so we tested every oven temperature and cooking time to get it just right. The results were pretty stellar. Let us show you how it’s done!
How to Cook Asparagus
Roasting and grilling are our favorite ways to cook asparagus because these methods add caramelization and grilled flavor that lets the asparagus shine in all its vegetable glory! Pan frying is also an option, but it’s a bit more hands-on and may smoke up the kitchen. And while you can steam or boil it, we don’t enjoy the flavor or texture as much (think boring and squishy). Since oven roasting is easiest and usually most accessible, let us show you our tips and tricks for perfect oven roasted asparagus!
Tips & Tricks for Oven Roasted Asparagus
Remove woody ends: We recommend trimming off the woody ends because they’re difficult to chew and result in stringy roasted asparagus. Cook at a high temperature: A higher temperature is what produces the lovely grilled flavor and al dente texture. We prefer 450 F / 232 C. Use a high-heat oil: We like to use avocado oil because its high smoke point limits oxidation and makes it a good candidate for higher temperatures. Avoid overcrowding: Leaving a little room between the asparagus spears will help them to roast rather than steam, resulting in golden brown exteriors. Season simply: A sprinkle of sea salt adds flavor and black pepper is a zesty option. After roasting, adding lemon juice/zest and vegan parmesan cheese is an elegant and delicious yet simple touch.
How Long to Roast Asparagus?
The amount of time it takes to roast the asparagus will depend on the thickness of the stalks and the temperature it’s cooked at. For perfect roasted asparagus, we recommend cooking at 450 F (232 C) for one of the following lengths of time:
Small stalks: 6 minutes Medium stalks: 8 minutes Large stalks: 10 minutes
We hope you LOVE this roasted asparagus! It’s:VibrantPerfectly tenderPacked with PREBIOTICS!Quick & easyDelicious& Has a lovely grilled flavor! It’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with nearly any main and other sides. Want some inspiration? Try it alongside our Lentil Mushroom Stew Over Mashed Potatoes, Best Vegan Meatballs, Lemon Baked Salmon with Garlic Dill Sauce, or Easy Marinated Grilled Chicken (30 Minutes!). And since roasted asparagus and potatoes are a match made in heaven, we’d also suggest serving with our Instant Pot Potatoes (Fast, Tender, Buttery!), Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes (No Drain, 20 Minutes!), or Easy Vegan Scalloped Potatoes.
More Asparagus Recipes
Creamy Asparagus and Pea Soup Creamy Vegetable Risotto (30 Minutes!) Spring Frittata with Leeks, Asparagus, and Sweet Potato Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Pasta (GF)
If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo @minimalistbaker on Instagram. Cheers, friends!
