Rosemary Roasted Asparagus

Whenever I have an impromptu dinner party, I invariably turn to this recipe of roasted asparagus for a side dish.  Not only are asparagus an incredibly elegant vegetable, this recipe is very versatile... It goes well with fish, seafood, chicken or beef.  In addition, the recipe does not require too much prep and the asparagus can be in the oven in no time! 

2 pounds Asparagus

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil  

4 cloves garlic, finely chopped       

1 teaspoon granulated sugar  

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

4 tablespoons chopped fresh flat leaf parsley  

1/2  teaspoon dried chili flakes

Salt and pepper, to taste

Preheat oven to 400 degrees  

1)    Cut off and discard the tough ends of the asparagus.  Cut the each asparagus into thirds

2)    Place the asparagus pieces in a large mixing bowl and toss with the oil, garlic, sugar, rosemary, parsley and chili flakes; season to taste with salt and pepper.

3)    Place the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet large enough to hold them without crowding.  Roast in the preheated oven about 20-25 minutes or until they easily pierced with a knife.  Stir the asparagus about halfway through the cooking time to promote even cooking.  Serve warm or at room temperature.