When it comes to side dishes, roasted asparagus is a timeless classic. It’s quick, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with almost any meal. I love making easy effortless recipes like this, and here I’ll show you how to make herb-crusted roasted asparagus in the oven. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with bright flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or whipping up a weeknight meal, this recipe will be your go-to.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Variations and Substitutions
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Serving Suggestions
- Other Side Dishes You’ll Love
- Connect with Me!
Roasted asparagus is a simple and versatile dish where fresh asparagus spears are tossed in olive oil, seasoned, and baked in the oven until perfectly tender. I love this cooking method because it caramelizes the asparagus, enhancing its natural sweetness and creating crispy tips that everyone loves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this herb-crusted roasted asparagus, you’ll need a few pantry staples and some fresh asparagus:
- Asparagus spears: Look for vibrant green stalks with firm tips. Trim the woody ends for the best texture.
- Nutritional yeast and breadcrumbs: These create a crispy, savory coating.
- Spices and herbs: Garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, oregano, and paprika provide flavor depth.
- Olive oil and lemon juice: These add moisture and brightness.
- Lemon zest: Adds a pop of freshness to the finished dish.
Variations and Substitutions
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the asparagus before roasting for a nutty, cheesy crust.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the roasted asparagus for a sweet, tangy flavor.
- Add Garlic: Toss minced garlic with the olive oil for a more robust flavor.
- Make it Vegan: Use vegan breadcrumbs and skip the parmesan if you add it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make roasted asparagus in the oven:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the asparagus: Trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears.
- Make the coating: In a bowl, whisk together nutritional yeast, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Season the asparagus: Place the asparagus on the baking sheet and toss with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Coat with the herb mixture: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the asparagus, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
- Roast: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the tips are crispy.
- Finish with lemon zest: Sprinkle freshly grated lemon zest over the top for a bright, tangy finish.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Asparagus
Single layer is key: Spread the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet for even cooking.
Use fresh asparagus: Fresh, firm stalks roast better and have a superior flavor.
Don’t overcook: Asparagus cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to avoid mushy spears.
Customize the seasoning: Add grated parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, or red pepper flakes for a twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This roasted asparagus recipe is:
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Healthy: Packed with nutrients and low in calories.
- Versatile: Works as a side dish, salad topper, or snack.
- Bursting with flavor: The herb crust and lemon zest elevate the dish to a gourmet level.
Serving Suggestions
This herb-crusted roasted asparagus pairs well with a variety of dishes:
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
- Pair with a creamy risotto or pasta for a comforting vegetarian dinner.
- Add to a grain bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of tahini dressing.
FAQs About Roasted Asparagus
Other Side Dishes You’ll Love
- Sautéed Green Beans with Caramelized Shallots & Pistachios
- Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
- Easy Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots
- Oven Roasted Spiced Vegetables Recipe (with a Herbed Yogurt and Tahini Sauce)
Connect with Me!
Want to connect? Follow me on Instagram for more delicious recipes and food tips. And, join me over on Facebook where I share recipes daily!
Crispy Roasted Asparagus with a Herb Crust
When it comes to side dishes, roasted asparagus is a timeless classic. It’s quick, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with almost any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Pinch of paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 a lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and trim the ends of the asparagus. Pat dry and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, mix together nutritional yeast, bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and the juice of 1/2 a lemon. Toss until evenly coated. Sprinkle the herb mixture over the asparagus, ensuring all spears are well covered.
- Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and lightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
Notes
This herb-crusted roasted asparagus pairs well with a variety of dishes:
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
- Pair with a creamy risotto or pasta for a comforting vegetarian dinner.
- Add to a grain bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of tahini dressing.
Christopher is a food and lifestyle expert, recipe developer and the content creator behind May Eighty Five. With over 6 years of creating recipes for your favourite food brands, he also shares tips, tricks and how to’s that he has learnt over the years. Every week, he shares quick, simple and mostly healthy recipes along with some home and entertaining tips. You will find flavorful cocktails, delicious appetizers, tasty mains and some indulgent desserts.
