Roasted Asparagus with Lavender Lemon Butter
Save
When Michigan asparagus shows up at the market, we eat it as often as we can. Roast it hot and fast, then spoon over a quick lemon butter with a pinch of lavender. Spring in about 20 minutes.
Jump to the recipe Print a 4×6 recipe card
Why this pairing works
Asparagus has a grassy, green flavor that loves lemon. Warming lavender gently in butter draws out its sweet, floral side, and the garlic pepper keeps everything savory.
Serves 4 Prep 10 min Cook 12 min
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus, woody ends trimmed
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- Lavender Salt Grinder, to taste
- Lavender Garlic Pepper Grinder, to taste
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp Culinary Lavender Buds, crushed just before using
- 1 lemon, zest and 1 Tbsp juice
- 2 Tbsp shaved Parmesan, optional
Directions
- Heat the oven to 425°F. Toss the asparagus with olive oil and season with Lavender Salt and Garlic Pepper.
- Roast in a single layer 8 to 12 minutes, depending on thickness, until bright green and just tender.
- Meanwhile, melt the butter over low heat with the crushed lavender for 2 minutes. Don't let it brown.
- Take the butter off the heat and stir in the lemon zest and juice.
- Spoon the lemon butter over the asparagus and top with Parmesan.
Serve it with: Herbes de Provence with Lavender
How long do you roast asparagus at 425°F?
| Spear thickness | Time at 425°F |
|---|---|
| Pencil-thin | 6 to 8 minutes |
| Medium | 8 to 10 minutes |
| Thick | 12 to 15 minutes |
It is done when bright green, tender when pierced with a fork and lightly browned at the tips.
When is Michigan asparagus in season?
Michigan asparagus usually arrives in early May and runs into June, depending on the spring weather. Look for firm, bright green spears with tight, closed tips. Store them upright in a jar with an inch of water in the fridge, loosely covered, for up to 4 days.
Can you grill asparagus instead?
Yes. Toss the spears with oil and seasoning and grill over medium-high heat for 5 to 8 minutes, turning once. Lay them crosswise on the grates, or use a grill basket, so none fall through.
What goes with roasted asparagus?
- Maple lavender glazed salmon.
- Honey lavender glazed ham for Easter.
- Lemon herbes de Provence shrimp linguine.
- Roast chicken or a spring frittata.
Make it your own
- Top with a jammy soft-boiled egg for a light lunch.
- Spoon the lemon butter over grilled salmon or green beans.
- Scatter toasted almonds or breadcrumbs on top for crunch.
Frequently asked questions
Should I peel asparagus?
Only very thick spears. Peel the lower half with a vegetable peeler so they cook evenly.
Can I make the lemon butter ahead?
Yes. Refrigerate it up to 1 week and rewarm gently.
How do I keep asparagus from getting mushy?
Roast in a single layer in a hot oven and pull it as soon as it is tender.
Made it? Rate this recipe below and tell us what you served it with.
Our cottage foods are made in small batches and are available for local pickup, at markets and events, and for shipping within Michigan. Tap any linked ingredient to see flavors and availability.
Share how it went in your field