Healthy Roast Asparagus with Creamy Almond Vinaigrette

• Two 1-pound bunches thick asparagus, ends trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 6 tablespoons blanched sliced almonds
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Position a rack in the top third of the oven.
2. Place the asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Roast until tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, combine 5 tablespoons of the almonds, the lemon juice, sugar and 6 tablespoons water in a blender and blend until smooth, about 1 minute.
6. Taste the sauce and season with salt.
7. Pour the sauce onto a platter and place the asparagus on top.
8. Garnish with the zest and remaining 1 tablespoon almonds.
9. Cook's Note: Garnish with your favorite fresh herb if you like: sliced basil, mint leaves or chopped parsley are all great choices.

thick asparagus, olive oil, kosher salt, almonds, lemon juice, sugar, lemon zest

Taken from www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/healthy-roast-asparagus-with-creamy-almond-vinaigrette-recipe.html (may not work)