Easy Oven Roasted Asparagus (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 pounds fresh asparagus
02 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
03 - 3 large garlic cloves, minced
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
06 - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Wash asparagus with cold water and dry thoroughly with a towel.
02 - To trim asparagus, snap the end of one spear and use it as a guide to cut remaining asparagus to the same length with a knife. You'll typically remove 1.5-2 inches of the chewy, stringy part.
03 - Arrange asparagus on a large rimmed baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with minced garlic, salt and pepper. Using tongs, toss to coat evenly. Spread asparagus spears in a single layer with minimum touching.
04 - Bake asparagus for 12 minutes. Asparagus is perfectly done when it turns bright green and is tender but still has a bite to it. If asparagus is hard to chew, it needs more time. If it's mushy, it's overcooked.
05 - Remove from the oven, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - Use a large enough baking sheet to avoid overcrowding - piled asparagus will steam instead of roast
02 - Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator covered for up to 2 days
03 - This dish is not suitable for freezing