Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Garlic Butter

Ingredients

• Asparagus (1 pound, trimmed)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste)
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon, or to taste)
• Lemon (1, juiced and zested)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Trim the woody ends of the asparagus and place the spears on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss the asparagus to ensure it is evenly coated.
3. Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the spears are tender and slightly charred, turning halfway through to promote even cooking.
4. While the asparagus is roasting, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and zest until well combined.
6. Once the asparagus is done roasting, transfer it to a serving platter. Generously drizzle the lemon garlic butter over the top.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.