When cooking asparagus in the oven at 350°F (175°C), the cooking time will depend on the thickness of the asparagus spears. Here's a general guideline:
- Thin asparagus spears (pencil-thin): Roast for about 8-10 minutes.
- Medium asparagus spears: Roast for approximately 12-15 minutes.
- Thick asparagus spears: Roast for around 15-20 minutes.
To prepare the asparagus for roasting, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly and trim off the tough ends. You can snap off the woody ends or use a knife to cut them at the point where they naturally break when bent.
- Toss the asparagus spears with some olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add other seasonings or herbs, like garlic powder, lemon zest, or grated Parmesan cheese, for added flavor.
- Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Keep a close eye on the asparagus while it roasts, as the cooking time can vary based on the thickness and freshness of the asparagus. The goal is to cook them until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
You can check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the thickest part of the spear. If it goes in easily and the asparagus is tender, they are ready to be taken out of the oven.
Roasting asparagus at 350°F (175°C) provides a gentle heat that allows the flavors to concentrate and the asparagus to caramelize slightly, resulting in a delicious side dish.