As we embrace the freshness of the season, there’s nothing quite like a vibrant batch of lemon roasted asparagus to add a burst of flavor to your meals. This easy and elegant recipe brings out the natural goodness of asparagus, combined with the zesty kick of lemon and the sweetness of honey, making it the perfect accompaniment to any dish.
Asparagus is a spring vegetable, and its peak season typically runs from late March through June. However, the exact timing can vary based on your region. To ensure the best flavor and nutritional quality, try to buy asparagus during its peak season. Look for bright green stalks that are firm and straight, with tightly closed tips.
Asparagus is packed with essential nutrients and boasts numerous health benefits, making it a fantastic addition to a balanced diet. Here’s a breakdown of some of its key nutritional components:
– **Low in Calories**: One cup of cooked asparagus contains approximately 27 calories, making it a low-calorie option for anyone trying to maintain or lose weight.
– **Fiber**: Asparagus is a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes a healthy gut, and helps keep you feeling full.
– **Vitamins**:
– **Vitamin K**: Essential for bone health and blood clotting, asparagus is rich in Vitamin K—providing around 57% of your daily recommended intake in just one cup.
– **Vitamin A**: Important for vision, immune function, and skin health, asparagus contains beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A.
– **Vitamin C**: An important antioxidant, Vitamin C supports the immune system and skin health.
With its impressive profile, asparagus offers numerous health benefits, including:
**Minerals**: Asparagus is an excellent source of minerals such as folate, which is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair, and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
– **Antioxidants**: Asparagus is rich in antioxidants such as glutathione, which helps the body detoxify and fight oxidative stress.
– **Anti-Inflammatory Properties**: The antioxidants and phytonutrients in asparagus can help reduce inflammation in the body.
– **Heart Health**: With its high potassium content and fiber, asparagus supports cardiovascular health by helping to manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
– **Digestive Health**: The fiber content aids in maintaining a healthy digestive system and may help prevent constipation.
– **Potential Cancer Prevention**: Some studies suggest that the antioxidants in asparagus may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer by combating oxidative stress.
Lemon Roasted Asparagus
Ingredients
- 2 Bunches Asparagus
- 1 Lemon
- 2 Tbsp Butter
- 1 Tbsp Honey
- 1 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Turn oven on to 400°
- Start by trimming the tough ends off the asparagus and placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step ensures easy cleanup and prevents the asparagus from sticking.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and zest the lemon directly into the butter. Add the honey and extra virgin olive oil, whisking everything together until well combined.
- Drizzle the lemon butter mixture over the asparagus, making sure to toss them gently so they are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cut the lemon in half and place the cut side down on the tray among the asparagus. This will infuse even more citrus flavor during roasting.
- Roast the asparagus for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly crispy. The vibrant green of the asparagus will deepen, and the lemon halves will caramelize beautifully.
- Once out of the oven, squeeze the hot lemon halves over the roasted asparagus for an extra burst of fresh lemon juice before serving.