When it's spring and the asparagus starts making it's appearance in the stores, this is my family's favourite way to eat them. We've been known to eat them with our fingers, right off the pan.
You need:
1 lb of asparagus
2 tsp olive oil
salt
Wash and then snap the woody ends of the asparagus (this is a great activity for kids). In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with just enough oil to coat, and salt to taste. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast in a 400F oven for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the pan now and then, roasting until they are tender and slightly charred.
