Roasted Asparagus with Orange Zest and Thyme

This post may contain affiliate links.  You can read my disclosure policy here.

Roasted Asparagus with Orange Zest and Thyme.  Cook for 20 minutes in the oven and finish with a sprinkling of orange zest.

Roasted_Asparagus_Orange_Thyme

Roasted Asparagus with Orange Zest and Thyme is a fast and simple dish to prepare.  Serve it with fish or chicken as a quick weeknight side dish.  Leftovers?  Cut up the asparagus and add it into your morning omelet or egg dish.

Asparagus is one of those vegetables that you either love or hate.  I think we all know two reasons why most people avoid eating it.  Let’s just say; I wouldn’t order this vegetable on a date.  Why eat it?  The upside is that asparagus is an excellent source of fiber, and vitamins A, C, E and K.  There was a reason my grandmother told me to eat this vegetable even it could lead a smelly outcome.

I try to eat in season.  You might be thinking, isn’t fresh asparagus a spring vegetable?  It is, however, in some areas it's available year-round.  These were at my local Farmers market, so I scooped them up.

Roasted_Asparagus_OrangeZest_Thyme

WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING ASPARAGUS?

Look for asparagus stalks that are bright green and firm.  Make sure the tips are tight and not limp.  The stalks should have a nice “snap” sound to them when broken in half.

HOW TO STORE ASPARAGUS

Asparagus will last 3 to 4 days in the refrigerated.  There are two ways to store the stalks in the refrigerator.  You can stand them upright in about an inch of water then cover them with a plastic bag.  Or you can wrap it tightly in a plastic bag.

HELPFUL TOOLS

A good roasting pan is a must.  I keep all sizes in my kitchen, but a half sheet pan (18” x 13” x1”) is perfect for this recipe.

 

Roasted_Asparagus_OrangeZest_Thyme

Roasted Asparagus with Orange Zest and Thyme

Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: easy roasted asparagus, seasonal side dish, vegetable side dish
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 39 kcal
Author: Lisa Marie Todd

An easy and delicious way to cook asparagus.

Print

Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh asparagus bottom ends trimmed
  • 1 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Grated orange zest
  • Fresh orange juice optional

Instructions

  1. Pre-heat oven to 400°F.  

  2. In a large bowl  whisk together olive oil, thyme, salt and pepper.  

  3. Add asparagus and thoroughly coat with olive oil mixture.  

  4. Place asparagus on a sheet pan.  Roast for 20 minutes until slightly crisp and tender.

  5. Sprinkle with orange zest and serve.  You can also squeeze a little fresh orange juice over the roasted asparagus for an extra citrus flavor boost.

Recipe Video

Recipe Notes

TIPS:

Thoroughly wash the asparagus to remove any soil that may be hiding in the tips.

If the asparagus stems are hard and tough use a vegetable peeler to remove those areas.

Nutrition Facts
Roasted Asparagus with Orange Zest and Thyme
Amount Per Serving
Calories 39 Calories from Fat 18
% Daily Value*
Fat 2g3%
Sodium 195mg8%
Potassium 164mg5%
Carbohydrates 3g1%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 1g1%
Protein 1g2%
Vitamin A 600IU12%
Vitamin C 9mg11%
Calcium 18mg2%
Iron 1.7mg9%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I would love to see what you made on Instagram.  Tag me at @lisamarietodd or hashtag it at #anappetizinglife.
Comments

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating