Garlic Asparagus

I have used this recipe on countless occasions and always get a rave review on this simple way to prepare asparagus. I have also used this vegetable side to film my food TV star pilot, which you can watch at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heather-Moloian-Blue-Ribbon-Chef/1336267700140 87?ref=ts&v=wall The asparagus has both a soft, yet crisp texture and is versatile to accompany any main dish!

• Ready In: 25 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1  lb fresh asparagus
• 1  tablespoon  of crushed garlic
• 1  tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
•  kosher sea salt
•  fresh pepper

Directions

1. Heat the oven for @ 400 degrees.
2. Clean and cut off the thick ends (about 1 inch) of the asparagus and place in a deep baking dish (glass or porcelain preferred). With a pastry brush, brush on the crushed garlic in both vertical and horizontal directions to coat the vegetable. Drizzle the olive oil (add more if desired) in a horizontal direction from left to right. Finish off the asparagus by lightly dusting the top with the sea salt and fresh ground pepper. Bake in the oven uncovered for @ 15-20 minutes. When the asparagus looks tender, change the oven temperature setting to broil for @ 5 minutes to deepen and crisp the tips of the vegetable.
3. Serve immediately!