Are you craving that delicious, perfectly charred asparagus you get at Longhorn Steakhouse? Forget pricey restaurant bills! This recipe lets you recreate that amazing flavor at home, quickly and easily. It's a fantastic side dish for any occasion, perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. This easy recipe is all about simple, fresh ingredients and a few key techniques that elevate the humble asparagus to restaurant-quality deliciousness. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a brighter taste)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Asparagus
Start by washing your asparagus thoroughly and trimming the tough, woody ends. A good rule of thumb is to snap off the bottom inch or two – it should break easily at the point where it becomes too tough to eat.
Step 2: Toss with Seasoning
In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and onion powder (if using). Make sure each spear is evenly coated.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the seasoned asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roasting ensures even cooking and a slightly charred, delicious flavor. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and slightly browned at the edges. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add a Zesty Finish (Optional)
Once the asparagus is cooked, remove it from the oven and gently toss with lemon juice, if desired. This adds a bright, fresh element that complements the savory garlic and onion flavors.
Tips for the Best Longhorn Steakhouse Style Asparagus:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the asparagus is in a single layer on the baking sheet for even roasting. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your asparagus spears. Thicker spears might need a couple of extra minutes.
- Get that char: For extra char, you can broil the asparagus for the last minute or two of cooking, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.
Variations:
- Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the asparagus during the last few minutes of roasting.
- Spicy Asparagus: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a little kick.
- Lemon Herb Asparagus: Substitute dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for the onion powder.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious side dish packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Nutritional information will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients and serving size but generally includes low calories, high fiber, and a good source of vitamins A, C, and K. A more precise calculation is best done using a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient quantities.
This Longhorn Steakhouse copycat asparagus recipe is a simple yet impressive side dish that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of perfectly roasted asparagus and simple seasonings creates a restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen. Enjoy!