Roasted Asparagus

Step 1Preheat oven to 425°F.

Step 2After you wash the asparagus thoroughly, stack a bunch together and lop off the tough/thick bottom an inch or so.

Step 3On a rimmed baking sheet, spread out the asparagus in a single layer. Pat them as dry as you can, as you don't want any water to "steam" the asparagus in the oven.

Step 4Generously drizzle olive oil all over the asparagus (and the melted butter, if you are using), then sprinkle the asparagus generously with salt and pepper.

Step 5Roast the asparagus for about 10 minutes. The secret here is for the oven to be very hot so the asparagus can begin to brown on the outside without overcooking and getting too flimsy. You want the finished asparagus to still have a bite to it. Enjoy! (Sprinkle with lemon zest before serving if you wish.)