Parmesan Asparagus

This Parmesan Asparagus recipe is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy asparagus with a delicious golden, cheesy topping. Roasted to perfection, it offers the perfect balance of tender, crisp asparagus with the savory taste of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish for dinner or a vibrant addition to your holiday table, this Parmesan Asparagus is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Parmesan Asparagus is the perfect combination of simple ingredients and big flavor. The asparagus roasts quickly, retaining its crisp texture while absorbing the rich flavors of olive oil and Parmesan. The addition of fresh lemon juice (optional) brightens the dish, giving it an extra pop of freshness. It’s a side dish that’s easy to make yet always feels indulgent and special.

Ingredients

• 1 pound asparagus (washed, dried, and ends removed)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

• 1 teaspoon fresh squeezed lemon juice (optional)

• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking sheet with nonstick spray or brush it with oil.

2. Prepare the Asparagus: Add the asparagus to the baking pan and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, then squeeze the lemon juice over the top (if using).

3. Roast the Asparagus: Place the asparagus in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender but still crisp, and the cheese begins to turn golden.

4. Add Parmesan Cheese: Remove from the oven and grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the top of the asparagus.

5. Finish Baking: Return the asparagus to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted, lightly browned, and the asparagus is tender.

6. Serve: Enjoy this cheesy, savory side dish!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Add minced garlic to the asparagus before roasting for an extra burst of flavor.

• Lemon Zest: For added brightness, sprinkle some lemon zest over the asparagus after roasting.

• Herb Parmesan Asparagus: Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor and freshness.

• Crushed Red Pepper: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the asparagus before roasting.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Parmesan Asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the asparagus back in a hot oven (around 350°F) for about 5-7 minutes to re-crisp the edges and melt the cheese again. You can also microwave it, but it won’t retain the same crisp texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

Fresh asparagus is best for this recipe, as it retains its crisp texture when roasted. If using frozen asparagus, make sure it is fully thawed and drained before roasting to prevent excess moisture.

2. Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?

While Parmesan adds a nice sharp flavor, you can use other cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even mozzarella for a different texture and taste.

3. How do I know when the asparagus is done?

The asparagus should be tender when pierced with a fork, but still have a bit of crispness to it. The Parmesan should be melted and golden brown.

4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the asparagus and season it ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and roast it when you’re ready to serve. Add the Parmesan at the end, just before the final baking.

5. Can I use a different oil?

Yes, you can use avocado oil or vegetable oil instead of olive oil. However, olive oil adds a wonderful richness and flavor that works particularly well in this recipe.

6. Can I skip the lemon juice?

Yes, the lemon juice is optional, but it does add a lovely brightness to the dish that complements the richness of the Parmesan. If you prefer, you can skip it or use a bit of lemon zest instead.

7. Can I make this recipe on the grill?

Yes, you can grill asparagus instead of roasting it in the oven. Just toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill it over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. Add the Parmesan at the end and let it melt over the hot asparagus.

8. Can I freeze the roasted asparagus?

While it’s best to enjoy asparagus fresh, you can freeze it after roasting, but the texture may change. If you choose to freeze it, be sure to let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.

9. How can I prevent the asparagus from becoming soggy?

Make sure to dry the asparagus thoroughly before roasting to avoid excess moisture. If the asparagus is too crowded on the baking sheet, it may steam instead of roast, so try to arrange it in a single layer.

10. How can I make this dish more flavorful?

You can experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor. Add them along with the olive oil and seasonings before roasting.

Conclusion

Parmesan Asparagus is a simple yet indulgent side dish that’s perfect for almost any meal. The crispy roasted asparagus combined with the rich, golden Parmesan cheese makes for a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it with a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe will always be a hit!

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