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Simple & Savory Roasted Asparagus

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Asparagus. That green veggie that looks like a long, skinny stick with a funny little hairdo. Yeah — that stuff. The vegetable people either love… or really, really do not. When cooked wrong, it can leave a bitter aftertaste that makes you question every life choice that led to putting it on your plate. But when cooked properly? Your taste buds will sing! Yup, we’re thinking of the same stuff.


Why I Love Roasted Asparagus

Growing up, my dad used to call me a “veggiesaurus” because I loved vegetables way more than my siblings did. There were only a few veggies I didn’t like — but asparagus? Oh, I was all in. If it was cooked just right, I’d eat as much as I could get away with. My siblings… yeah, it took them a little longer to join the club.

I know this heading says “Why I Love Roasted Asparagus,” but honestly? I don’t even know the exact reason. I just always have. Maybe it’s because it looks cool, or maybe it’s the delicious smell while it roasts in the oven. But if you’re asking for the deep explanation behind my love of asparagus… your guess is as good as mine.


What Goes Well With Asparagus?

Let’s say you bought asparagus a couple days ago and now you’re staring at it like, “Okay… what next?” Don’t worry — here are some delicious ideas:

  • Alfredo
    Chicken Alfredo, shrimp Alfredo, salmon Alfredo, broccoli Alfredo — or just classic fettuccine. Asparagus + pasta = a dreamy combo.
  • Chicken
    Pretty much any chicken dish pairs beautifully with asparagus. Baked chicken, seasoned chicken, stuffed chicken breasts, wings — asparagus will happily hop on the plate. (Maybe skip it with a BBQ chicken sandwich, though… that’s not the vibe.)
  • Steak
    A special dish deserves a special side. Steak goes wonderfully with potatoes, broccoli, carrots, and yes — asparagus!
  • Salmon
    Just like steak, salmon plays well with lots of sides. Potatoes? Yup. Broccoli? Of course. Asparagus? Match made in heaven.

Nutrition Facts

Let’s talk nutritional value. Asparagus isn’t just tasty — it’s also a powerhouse for your health. It supports digestion, vision, and bone strength. It’s an excellent source of Vitamins A, C, E, and K. Plus, it packs fiber, folate, potassium, and antioxidants.

It can support your immune system, help with detoxification, and even keep your skin glowing! If I weren’t already excited to eat asparagus every chance I get… I definitely would be now.


Good Vs. Bad

Here’s a big question a lot of people don’t actually know the answer to:
How do you tell the difference between good asparagus and bad asparagus?

Good asparagus:
✅ Firm, bright green stalks
✅ Closed, compact tips

Bad asparagus:
❌ Limp or shriveled
❌ Faded or discolored
❌ Slimy texture or bad odor (ew)

Just remember:
Good color = good asparagus.
Bad color = bad asparagus.

I literally just made that up on the spot — but honestly, it works.


Simple & Savory Roasted Asparagus

Ingredients:

  • Asparagus (As much as you like!)
  • 2 Tablespoons Butter
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Spread the asparagus out on a sheet pan in a single layer.
  3. Dab the butter over the asparagus, then distribute the minced garlic as evenly as possible.
  4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Give the pan a gentle shake or use your hands to coat the asparagus evenly.
  5. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly golden.

Notes & Tips

  • Olive Oil
    If you’re going dairy-free, swap the butter for olive oil! It still gives that melt-in-your-mouth texture and doesn’t take away any of the delicious flavor.
  • Thicker Asparagus
    If your asparagus is a bit on the thicker side, that’s okay! It just means it will need a couple extra minutes in the oven. But don’t worry — it’ll be worth the wait!
  • Always Trim With A Knife — Don’t Snap!
    Snapping the ends can waste perfectly good asparagus. Cutting the tough ends off with a knife saves more of the delicious part!

What To Serve It With

When making something as delicious as asparagus, you need a mouth-watering main dish to go with it. A star side dish deserves a star main dish. It’s just common culinary knowledge!

  • Grilled Salmon
    Rich, flavorful, and a perfect match for the asparagus’s light, savory notes
  • Lemon Herb Chicken
    Bright, zesty flavors that make the asparagus shine.
  • Stuffed Chicken Breasts
    Hearty, flavorful, and complemented by the asparagus’s simple elegance.

Who knew those funny little green sticks with the crazy hairdos could be this tasty? Whether you serve them with pasta, steak, chicken, or salmon, roasted asparagus is always ready to shine.
So grab that sheet pan and treat yourself to some extra green goodness!

Until Next Time…

Stay Saucy

Hailey 🍝

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