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Cheesy Roasted Asparagus

Cheesy Roasted Asparagus

Cheesy Roasted Asparagus is a simple and elegant side dish featuring tender asparagus spears topped with crispy, golden Parmesan cheese. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions, it pairs well with a variety of main courses and offers a healthy, flavorful addition to your meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus, firm and bright green, woody ends trimmed

Seasonings & Oil

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to create a hot environment that will roast the asparagus quickly, caramelizing both the vegetable and the cheese.
  2. Prepare the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus well, then snap or cut off the tough woody ends. Arrange the spears on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
  3. Season the Spears: Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat every stalk evenly.
  4. Add the Cheese: Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus, making sure each spear gets some cheesy coverage.
  5. Roast Until Golden: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
  6. Finishing Touch (Optional): Once out of the oven, sprinkle a little lemon zest for a refreshing contrast that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.

Notes

  • Choose asparagus stalks of uniform thickness for even roasting.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; give each spear space for proper heat circulation and crisping.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and crispiness compared to pre-grated.
  • Watch the roasting time closely to avoid mushy asparagus; aim for tender but still firm.
  • For extra crispy cheese crust, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy roasted asparagus, roasted asparagus, Parmesan asparagus, easy vegetable side, healthy side dish