Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting the asparagus quickly while giving it a nice golden color.
Take your trimmed asparagus and spread it out on a large baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and use your hands to toss it, ensuring every spear is evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving an even roast.
Season the asparagus generously with freshly cracked salt and pepper. Don't be shy! Seasoning helps elevate the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Now, arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. This allows them to roast evenly and become beautifully crisp.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the asparagus for 8 to 10 minutes. You want them to be tender yet still crisp, so keep an eye on them!
While the asparagus is roasting, grab a small skillet and melt butter over medium heat. Allow it to melt slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
After the butter has melted, continue cooking it for approximately 3 minutes until it becomes lightly browned and fragrant. Be sure to stir constantly to avoid any bitterness.
Once browned, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in soy sauce and balsamic vinegar. This mixture will create a delicious glaze for the asparagus.
When the asparagus is done roasting, remove it from the oven and drizzle the balsamic brown butter over it. Toss the asparagus gently to coat them evenly in the sauce.
If desired, garnish with orange zest and some caramelized nuts for an extra touch of flavor and texture. Serve immediately and enjoy your stunning Balsamic Asparagus!
