Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
Trim the tough ends off the asparagus, about an inch from the bottom, and place them in a mixing bowl.
Pour the olive oil over the asparagus and toss gently until all spears are evenly coated, helping them roast evenly and develop a rich flavor.
Thinly slice the garlic cloves and scatter them evenly over the oiled asparagus, ensuring the slices are spread out for crispiness.
Season generously with flaky sea salt and toss again to distribute the seasonings evenly across the spears.
Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out so they aren’t crowded. This promotes even roasting and browning.
Slide the sheet into the oven and roast for 10 to 12 minutes, until the tips are golden and crispy, and the stalks are tender.
Once roasted, remove the asparagus from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top for brightness, if using.
Finish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and an extra drizzle of olive oil for added richness and flavor.
Serve immediately while the edges are still crispy and fragrant garlic fills the air — enjoy this simple yet flavorful side dish!