KEY INFO
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free
- Net Carbs: 2.5g per serving
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Knife and cutting board
- Garlic press
- Lemon juicer (or fork)
- Small mixing bowl
- Pastry brush
Alternative: Use a large skillet if not roasting
INGREDIENTS
- 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus spears
- 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
METHOD
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Wash asparagus and snap off woody ends where they naturally break
- Place asparagus on lined baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper
- In a small bowl, combine:
- Softened butter
- Minced garlic
- Lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- Roast asparagus for 10 minutes
- Remove from oven, brush with garlic-lemon butter mixture
- Return to oven for 2 minutes until tender-crisp and bright green
- Garnish with:
- Extra lemon zest
- Parmesan (if using)
- Fresh parsley
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Don’t overcook! Asparagus should be tender but still crisp
- Room temperature butter mixes better
- Pat asparagus dry before oiling to ensure proper roasting
- Thicker spears need 2-3 minutes extra cooking time
STORAGE & VARIATIONS
Storage:
- Refrigerate up to 3 days in airtight container
- Best served fresh
- Reheat in oven at 350°F for 3-4 minutes
Variations:
- Grilled: Cook on high heat for 5-7 minutes
- Air Fryer: 400°F for 7-9 minutes
- Add red pepper flakes for heat
- Use ghee instead of butter for dairy-free option
Common Mistakes:
- Overcooking (leads to mushy texture)
- Not drying asparagus before roasting
- Using cold butter (won’t spread evenly)
- Burning the garlic (watch carefully during final roasting)
This keto-friendly side dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats or fish, and takes less than 25 minutes from start to finish. The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a classic flavor profile that enhances the natural taste of fresh asparagus while keeping carbs low.
