Asparagus Baked In Foil
Tender asparagus baked in foil with lemon, broth, and seasonings offers a flavorful, easy side perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Place the washed and trimmed asparagus in the center of a large sheet of aluminum foil in a baking pan with the edges folded up to keep the liquid inside.
- Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle with lemon juice and pour the chicken broth over all.
- Fold the sides of the foil over and seal to enclose the asparagus.
- Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the asparagus are al dente, just cooked.
- Remove from the oven and transfer the asparagus to a platter.
- Pour the juices over the asparagus.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon rind, then serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider tossing in some minced garlic or red pepper flakes along with the seasoning. If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth makes a great substitute. Make sure to keep the asparagus in a single layer for even cooking. You can also use this method for other vegetables like green beans or zucchini for a delicious side dish.
Serving Suggestions
This asparagus dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, making it a perfect side for summer barbecues. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Chicken Salad A L'Orange or a light pasta dish. Garnishing with fresh herbs or lemon zest enhances the presentation and flavor, making it a delightful addition to any dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the asparagus in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals until warmed through, avoiding overcooking to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Baked In Foil contains roughly 308 calories, with 36g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (188% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (132% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1417mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
Yes, frozen asparagus can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before using. Frozen vegetables often release more moisture, so you may want to reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
How do I know when the asparagus is done cooking?
The asparagus is done when it is bright green and tender yet still crisp. Check for doneness around the 20-minute mark; it should be al dente. If you prefer it softer, you can cook it a few minutes longer.
Can I add other vegetables to the foil packet?
Absolutely! This method works well with a variety of vegetables. Consider adding bell peppers, carrots, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the different vegetables you include.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).