Simple Roasted White Asparagus with Chives
Roasted White Asparagus with Chives makes a delicious side dish to enjoy in the spring! White asparagus and chives are in season during the spring, making it the perfect time to serve at Easter dinner, Mother’s Day, or any occasion during the spring.
What is White Asparagus?
Before we get to the recipe, let’s first talk about this unique vegetable. You may not be as familiar with white asparagus as green asparagus. It is white since it is grown underground, which prevents the asparagus from turning green because it doesn’t undergo photosynthesis.
White asparagus, or spargel in German, is commonly eaten in Germany, and they even have a white asparagus season or Spargelzeit in German. During my visit to Germany in April 2018, I was able to experience this season, where you see it everywhere in the outdoor markets and restaurants.
To learn more about Germany, check out this post for Things to Do in Germany!
Ingredients in this Roasted White Asparagus Recipe
- White asparagus is the star of this side dish, and it is milder and more delicate than green asparagus.
- Chives – add a pop of color and flavor to this delicious side dish.
- Lemon Juice – squeezing lemon juice adds some brightness and flavor.
- Olive oil – keeps the asparagus from drying out in the oven.
How to Make Roasted White Asparagus
First, preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Then it is essential to trim the ends of the asparagus to eliminate the fibrous end. Or you can bend the ends where the asparagus naturally snaps off. And then, you need to peel the outside of the asparagus because the exterior is a little tougher compared to green asparagus.
Next, transfer the asparagus to the baking sheet and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper—roast in the oven for 30 minutes or until tender.
Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving plate. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus and top with chopped chives, and serve!
Nutritional Benefits of Roasted White Asparagus with Chives
White Asparagus
While the white variety is not as common in the United States compared to green asparagus, it still has nutritional benefits. It is low in calories, high in fiber with 4 grams per cup, and low in carbohydrates. Read 27 of the Best High Fiber Low Carb Foods for more high fiber, low carb foods!
It also has potent antioxidants, phenolic acid, and flavonoids. And cooked white asparagus has 18.2 mg of vitamin C per cup and 757 IU of vitamin A!
Chives
Chives are closely related to onions, leeks, and garlic and are a nutrient-dense food! But since chives are used as a garnish, you will get fewer nutrients. Chives are a good source of vitamins K, C, and folate. They also have anti-cancer properties!
Olive Oil
Olive oil is known for having excellent health benefits. First, it comprises monounsaturated fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation in the body. Olive oil also has antioxidants that can lower the risk of chronic diseases, including strokes, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
For a delicious recipe using extra virgin olive oil, check out this Simple Parmesan Vinaigrette Recipe! It is one of my favorite salad dressing recipes.
Lemon Juice
One of the best ways to add flavor to many foods is lemon juice. And lemon juice is an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C helps with bone formation, the repair of tissues, and gum health. Lemon juice is also a good source of phytochemicals with antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Peeling the outside of the white asparagus is a must because the exterior is tougher than green asparagus.
- Store the roasted asparagus wrapped in aluminum foil or a plastic bag, or place it in a shallow, airtight container. It will last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
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More Healthy Side Dish Recipe Ideas!
- Easy Roasted Summer Squash and Zucchini (and 5 Nutritious Ingredients!)
- Simple Herb-Roasted Vegetables with 4 Incredible Foods
Simple Roasted White Asparagus with Chives
Ingredients
- 1 pound white asparagus
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon
- ¼ cup chives chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Next, trim the ends of the white asparagus to get rid of the fibrous ends. Or bend the ends where the asparagus naturally snaps off. Then peel the outside of the asparagus using a vegetable peeler.
- Then, transfer the white asparagus to the baking sheet and toss with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes or until tender.
- Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving plate. Squeeze fresh lemon over the asparagus and top with chopped chives.
Notes
Simple Roasted White Asparagus with Chives
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Peeling the outside of the white asparagus is a must because the exterior is tougher than green asparagus.
- Store the roasted asparagus wrapped in aluminum foil or a plastic bag or place it in a shallow, airtight container. It will last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Can’t wait to try it.
It’s a delicious side dish!
Hope you enjoy it!