how long to bake asparagus at 400

The baking time for asparagus at 400°F (200°C) can vary depending on the thickness of the spears and your desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines:

– Thin asparagus spears (1/4 inch or 6 mm thick): 8-12 minutes
– Medium asparagus spears (1/2 inch or 1 cm thick): 12-15 minutes
– Thick asparagus spears (3/4 inch or 2 cm thick): 15-20 minutes

To bake asparagus at 400°F (200°C), follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Rinse the asparagus spears and pat them dry with a paper towel.
4. Place the asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings or lemon juice if desired.
6. Bake for the recommended time, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and serve hot.

Keep an eye on the asparagus during the baking time, as it can quickly go from perfectly cooked to overcooked. You can also check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the thickest part of the spear; if it slides in easily, the asparagus is done.