Looking for a simple yet delicious way to enjoy asparagus? This roasted garlic parmesan asparagus recipe is the answer. It’s quick to prepare and brings out the natural flavors of the asparagus while adding a savory twist. Perfect as a side dish or a light snack, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again.
Imagine fresh asparagus spears, drizzled with olive oil, then sprinkled with garlic and parmesan cheese, roasted to perfection in the oven. The result is tender-crisp asparagus with a delightful cheesy and garlicky flavor that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it pairs beautifully with any main dish, making it a versatile choice for everyday meals or special occasions.
Visual Appeal of Roasted Asparagus
The sight of roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and adorned with melted parmesan cheese is undeniably appetizing. The vibrant green of the asparagus creates a striking contrast against the golden hues of the cheese, making it an enticing dish to serve.
Placing this dish on a rustic wooden table enhances its charm, offering a warm and welcoming presentation. The lemon wedges on the side not only add a splash of color but also suggest a fresh burst of flavor, inviting diners to squeeze a bit of citrus over the asparagus for an extra zing.
Flavor Profile
Each bite of roasted asparagus reveals a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The tender-crisp spears are complemented by a savory garlic infusion, while the parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty element that elevates the dish.
This dish strikes a balance between freshness and indulgence, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed as a light snack, it appeals to a variety of palates.
Preparation Tips
Preparing this dish is straightforward, starting with fresh asparagus spears. Trimmed to the right length, they should be tossed with high-quality olive oil and minced garlic for maximum flavor.
It’s essential to ensure that the asparagus is evenly coated before spreading them in a single layer on a baking sheet. This technique guarantees that every spear roasts uniformly, achieving that perfect tender-crisp texture.
Cooking Method
The roasting process is where the magic happens. Preheating the oven to a high temperature allows the asparagus to caramelize beautifully, enhancing its natural sweetness while maintaining a slight crunch.
After the initial roasting period, sprinkling grated parmesan cheese over the asparagus and returning it to the oven for a few minutes allows the cheese to melt into a luscious topping that perfectly complements the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serving roasted asparagus with lemon wedges is highly recommended. The acidity of the lemon brightens the dish, adding an invigorating contrast to the rich flavors of garlic and cheese.
This dish can be a star player at dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or any casual meal. Its visual appeal and delicious taste make it an easy crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress guests.
Health Benefits
Aside from its delightful taste and presentation, this roasted asparagus dish offers nutritional benefits as well. Asparagus is low in calories yet packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any meal.
Combined with the healthy fats from olive oil and the protein from parmesan cheese, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also contributes to a balanced diet. It’s a great way to enjoy vegetables without compromising flavor.
Easy Oven-Roasted Asparagus with Garlic and Parmesan
This roasted asparagus is a crowd-pleaser, featuring tender spears with a crispy garlic and parmesan coating. Each bite offers a beautiful balance of nutty, cheesy goodness and fresh vegetable flavor, making it a delightful addition to your meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Asparagus: In a large bowl, toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the Asparagus: Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly crispy.
- Add Parmesan: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve: Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing touch.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 6g