Simple ingredients and an easy cooking method yield an impressive side: Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
Historically, green vegetables and kids are not the best of friends. Especially cooked veggies. Part of this may be the outdated packaging and methods of cooking. For instance, my husband grew up being served reheated canned spinach that was disgusting; it’s taken years, but I finally got him to enjoy fresh spinach that’s been sautéed or wilted. Asparagus is another one that has undergone a makeover of sorts in American cooking. Fresh asparagus is delicious when cooked the right way!
Roasting or grilling asparagus is a great way to enjoy its naturally nutty yet fresh flavor. Fatter asparagus spears are the best for cooking at the high temperatures involved in roasting or grilling. They can withstand the high heat without burning or wilting. The sweet, warm flavor of Parmesan cheese is the perfect complement to asparagus’s natural flavor, and the finished product is one that the whole family can enjoy!
The simplicity of the ingredients and hands-off cooking time is a big plus for this recipe. Nothing fancy, but the result is an addictive, versatile side dish. Simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to serve to company or alongside a steak, Parmesan Roasted Asparagus is a good go-to recipe to have on hand. The health benefits are a bonus: asparagus is full of fiber and important nutrients, and the olive oil roasting method keeps this firmly in the healthy camp.
Shopping for Asparagus
While asparagus is in season during the spring months, it is normally available year-round in most groceries. Having said that, watch for good sales in the spring when it’s abundant! To choose an asparagus bunch for this recipe, look for medium to large ones in diameter. I love pencil-thin asparagus for salads or a quick pan sauté, but for roasting, you need heartier stalks. Once you find the right diameter, check the tops to make sure they’re not mushy or opening and the bottoms to make sure they’re not withered or rubbery.
FAQs & Tips
How to Make Ahead and Store?
Parmesan Roasted Asparagus is best served right after roasting. However, if you need to make it ahead, it can be prepared as directed and once cooled, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 4-5 days this way. Freezing is not recommended. When you’re ready to serve it, avoid reheating in the microwave, as the texture will change. Instead, reheat in a 350-degree oven until warm.
Why is My Roasted Asparagus Tough to Chew?
If your roasted asparagus is soggy or stringy, it may be overcooked. Carefully check for doneness at about 8 minutes, and don’t leave it in the oven more than the recommended 10. You want the texture to be tender-crisp, which means not raw and crunchy but not mushy, either. The asparagus will continue to cook on the pan when you first take it out of the hot oven, so don’t leave it sitting on the pan forever, even after removing it from the oven.
Love the Crunch? Mix it Up!
If you love the crunch of the Parmesan, try adding in other crunchy items. You can mix a tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs in with the Parmesan mixture for added crunch. Alternatively, you can add some pine nuts, sesame seeds or bacon crumbles in the final few minutes of cooking for a flavor-packed crunch. Bacon makes everything better, right? However, beware that bacon does add fat and calories to this otherwise healthy dish.
Serving Suggestions
One of the reasons why I love Parmesan Roasted Asparagus is because it’s so versatile. Need a quick side dish? It’s just right. Need something for your holiday table or to serve with an elegant dinner? It works for those as well. As far as flavor profile, it’s up to you. For instance, try it as a side dish to this Slow Cooker Salmon, or with a baked potato and this Cast Iron Skillet Filet Mignon. For a vegetarian meal, it is excellent served with Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese.
Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
Ingredients Â
- 1 pound fresh asparagus tough ends trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
InstructionsÂ
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
- Place the trimmed asparagus on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the asparagus with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned asparagus.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
Leave a Comment