This is a great way to give asparagus a very robust, roasted flavor.  

• 15-20 stalks asparagus, washed and trimmed
•   1 tablespoon oil
• Salt, to taste
•   Freshly ground pepper 
•   Arugula leaves (optional) 
•   Lemon slices (optional)   

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss asparagus in oil and lightly salt and pepper. Place on baking sheet pan and add a couple of tablespoons of water and cover with foil. Bake for 10 minutes. Uncover and continue to bake for another 5-10 minutes until tender crisp and a little brown. Serve on a plate of arugula leaves with lemon slices.  

Variation:

 After roasting, drizzle with a little roasted sesame oil and sprinkle with black sesame seeds.

Hint:

  Twenty stalks of asparagus weighs approximately one pound.