Oven-Baked Asparagus Three Ways

Asparagus is one of my favourite veggies for so many reasons. Not only is it packed full of many essential vitamins and minerals and a great source of filling fiber, it also has an uncanny ability to pair well with a seemingly endless number of flavour combinations. These quick and easy recipes below are a perfect example of this versatility. No matter what food mood you’re in, asparagus can work for you!

These recipes also offer a great way to squeeze veggies into our busy schedules. Finding time for a well-rounded meal that the whole family will enjoy can be tough to do when you’re juggling work, school, extra-curricular activities, and more. Offering a variety of flavours means you can easily cater to personal preferences while still using just one baking dish. And what’s easier than a wash and toss recipe like this?! Wash and snap the asparagus, toss in the wet ingredients, and follow up with the dry. Give another toss, spread on the baking dish, then pop in the oven. Serve alongside a whole grain and a lean protein and voilà! Dinner is ready.

Give these combos a try and let us know what your favourite is.

From left to right: Lemony Goodness, Garlic & Ginger, Chili Lime

From left to right: Lemony Goodness, Garlic & Ginger, Chili Lime

*Serves 2-4

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 5-8 minutes

Flavour Combination Options

Lemony Goodness

1/3 bunch asparagus

2 teaspoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon olive oil

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon salt

Chili Lime

1/3 bunch asparagus

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (more if you like it real spicy!)

2 teaspoons lime juice

1 teaspoon chili powder

Garlic & Ginger

1/3 bunch asparagus

1 teaspoon sesame oil

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon dried ginger

Pinch of sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400⁰F.

  2. Prep the asparagus: wash & snap off the ends.

  3. Choose your favourite flavours.

  4. Toss the asparagus with the liquid ingredients, followed by the dry.

  5. Spread prepared asparagus stalks evenly on a baking sheet (you can like the sheet with parchment paper for quicker cleanup).

  6. If using fresh lemon & limes, cut a few slices off and lay them on top of the asparagus for an extra punch of flavour and stunning presentation.

  7. Pop in the oven and bake for 5-8 minutes, watching closely.

  8. Serve alongside a whole grain and lean protein for the perfect weeknight meal.

  9. Enjoy!

Recipe created by Alex Chesney, RD