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Lemony Asparagus

This vibrant lemony asparagus dish is the ultimate way to celebrate seasonal greens. By quickly sautéing the spears in high-quality olive oil, you retain their crisp texture while developing a delicate char that balances the natural sweetness of the vegetable. The addition of fresh lemon zest and juice provides a bright, zesty finish that lifts the earthy flavours beautifully.

As a versatile vegan side dish, this recipe pairs perfectly with roasted new potatoes, a light pasta or as part of a fresh spring salad. It is a fantastic option for those seeking a healthy and nutritious addition to a midweek meal, requiring only a handful of store-cupboard ingredients and less than ten minutes to prepare.

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Ingredients for Lemony Asparagus

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 bunch asparagus

  • Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus to the pan. Season with salt and pepper and cook, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. Add the lemon zest and juice and toss to coat. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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UK recipe editors

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UK recipe editors

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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