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Cheesy Roasted Asparagus

Cheesy Roasted Asparagus

Cheesy Roasted Asparagus is a quick and easy side dish that combines tender-crisp asparagus with a golden, melted Parmesan cheese crust. This flavorful recipe offers a perfect balance of fresh veggies and comforting, cheesy indulgence, making it an ideal complement to a wide variety of meals from grilled meats to pasta dishes. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s both nutritious and delicious, perfect for healthy weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare the asparagus: Rinse the asparagus thoroughly and trim the woody ends off the bottom to ensure tenderness. Pat dry to remove excess moisture, which helps in roasting evenly.
  2. Season the asparagus: Place the asparagus on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder evenly over the spears. Toss everything gently to coat each stalk.
  3. Roast the asparagus: Arrange the asparagus in a single layer and roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 12-15 minutes, until the spears are tender but still firm.
  4. Add the cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the asparagus during the last 3-5 minutes of roasting, allowing the cheese to melt and turn golden brown.
  5. Finish and serve: Remove the pan from the oven and, if desired, add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Choose uniform stalks of asparagus for even cooking throughout.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure the spears roast and stay crisp instead of steaming.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor; pre-grated cheese may contain additives.
  • Monitor the cheese closely during the last minutes to avoid burning.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal crisp-cheese texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy asparagus, roasted asparagus, easy side dish, Parmesan asparagus, healthy side, gluten free side