Kamil Perry
Baked asparagus with parmesan cheese is a simple, delicious, and elegant side dish that can be prepared in under 20 minutes. It pairs well with a variety of main dishes, including salmon, steak, chicken, shrimp, and eggs. The key to this recipe is the combination of tender roasted asparagus spears and nutty Parmesan cheese, resulting in a tasty and tender side dish. This dish can be easily customized with additional ingredients such as garlic, lemon, breadcrumbs, and different types of cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prep time | Minimal |
| Cook time | 6-20 minutes |
| Oven temperature | 400°F-425°F |
| Ingredients | Asparagus, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, lemon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese |
| Variations | Use garlic powder or fresh minced garlic, add mozzarella cheese, use avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil |
| Storage | Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right asparagus
First, look for asparagus that is fresh and in season. The seasonality of asparagus affects its thickness; thicker spears are typically harvested at the beginning of the season, while thinner spears are available towards the end. Fresh asparagus should have a bright, vibrant green colour and firm stalks. Avoid asparagus with very dark green or black tips, as this indicates that it is past its prime and may be mushy.
Next, consider the thickness of the asparagus spears. Thicker asparagus stalks are meatier and are preferred for grilling, while thinner stalks are ideal for roasting. Roasting thinner asparagus spears will result in a crispier texture, enhancing the flavour and creating a delightful side dish.
When selecting asparagus, it is essential to check for tenderness and remove any woody ends. The bottom inch or two of asparagus stalks can be fibrous and tough, so they should be snapped off or cut with a chef's knife. To find the right breaking point, sharply bend the asparagus near the base, and it will naturally snap at the correct spot.
Finally, choose asparagus that feels firm to the touch but has a slight bit of give. This texture indicates that the asparagus is ripe and ready to be cooked.
By following these tips, you'll be able to select the perfect asparagus for your roasted asparagus with Parmesan cheese dish.
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Preparing the asparagus
Next, trim the ends of the asparagus. The very bottom inch or two of the stalks can be fibrous and tough, so use a chef's knife to cut them off. You can also use a vegetable peeler to peel the skins off the base of the asparagus spears for a more elegant presentation. If you want to ensure you're cutting off the right amount, gently bend each stalk until it snaps. This will be exactly where you want the woody end removed.
Now, it's time to season the asparagus. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and toss to coat evenly. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at this stage, or toss the stalks with it at the same time as the olive oil. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder, fresh minced garlic, or garlic salt over the asparagus, and toss again. You can also add Italian seasoning, or swap this for individual dried herbs such as basil or parsley.
Finally, place the asparagus on a baking sheet. If you like, line the baking sheet with foil first. Spread the asparagus in a single layer, or add them to a baking dish if you plan to add the cheese at the same time. If you want to add a crunchy topping, toss the asparagus with panko breadcrumbs at this stage. Now, it's ready for the oven!
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Preparing the baking tray
To prepare the baking tray, start by lining it with foil. This will make cleaning up easier later. Then, prepare an olive oil-lemon marinade by whisking together olive oil and lemon juice. You can also add other seasonings like Italian seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder or fresh minced garlic to the marinade. Alternatively, you can simply drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle on the seasonings.
Next, place the asparagus on the prepared baking tray. If you want to add breadcrumbs, toss the asparagus in the olive oil-lemon marinade first, then top with a combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. If you're not using breadcrumbs, simply spread the asparagus in a single layer on the baking tray and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic (if using). Make sure the asparagus is in a single layer so that it cooks evenly.
You can also snap off the woody ends of the asparagus spears or cut them off with a knife to ensure they are all a similar length for even cooking. If you want to peel the skins off the base of the spears for a more elegant presentation, use a vegetable peeler.
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Baking the asparagus
To bake asparagus with parmesan cheese, start by choosing firm, medium asparagus stalks with tightly closed tips. You can trim the ends and remove about an inch from the bottom of the stalks, as they can be fibrous and tough. Then, rinse the asparagus and snap the spears if you want them to be more tender. You can also peel the skins off the base of the asparagus for a more elegant presentation.
Next, prepare your baking sheet. You can line it with foil if you wish. Place the asparagus on the baking sheet and drizzle olive oil over them, tossing to coat evenly. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice at this stage for a brighter flavor. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder or fresh minced garlic over the asparagus and toss again.
Now, bake the asparagus in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 8 to 12 minutes, flipping the spears halfway through. You can also use an air fryer at the same temperature. The asparagus is done when it turns bright green and is just starting to soften.
Remove the asparagus from the oven and sprinkle the parmesan cheese over them. You can use grated, shredded, or shaved parmesan, or a mix of parmesan and mozzarella cheese. You can also add breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
Return the asparagus to the oven and bake until the cheese has melted and the asparagus is tender, about 3 to 5 more minutes. If you like your cheese crisp and golden, place the asparagus under the broiler for a minute or two. Serve warm, with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
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Serving suggestions
Baked asparagus with parmesan cheese is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your meal:
Seafood Delights
Roasted asparagus is an ideal companion for seafood dishes. Try serving it alongside grilled salmon or scallops for a sophisticated meal. If you're a fan of shrimp or prawns, asparagus with parmesan can enhance their flavour. For a lighter option, pair it with poached or fried fish for a delicious and nutritious combination.
Meat Lovers' Choice
Asparagus with parmesan can also be served with meat dishes. Consider pairing it with ham for a hearty meal or enjoying it as a side to roasted meats. The slight crispness of the asparagus and the salty parmesan can complement the richness of meats such as beef or lamb.
Breakfast or Brunch Options
Don't limit yourself to lunch or dinner! Asparagus with parmesan makes a great breakfast or brunch option. Pair it with eggs, whether they're poached, fried, or hard-boiled. The runny yolk of a poached egg can create a delicious sauce for the asparagus.
Vegetarian or Vegan Feasts
For vegetarian or vegan meals, roasted asparagus can be a star side dish. Serve it with vegetable-based mains, such as grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted aubergine. The addition of lemon and butter, as suggested by NatashasKitchen.com, can further enhance the flavour and make it a refreshing and light option.
Salads and Grains
Consider adding baked asparagus with parmesan to your salads for a unique twist. It can be a tasty addition to grain bowls, such as quinoa or brown rice salads. The asparagus provides a crunchy texture and a burst of flavour, especially when paired with nutty grains and a tangy vinaigrette.
Experiment with different combinations to find your favourite pairings, and don't be afraid to get creative with your ingredients!
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Frequently asked questions
Choose firm, medium asparagus stalks with tightly closed tips. Trim the ends and lay the stalks on a baking sheet. If you want to be fancy, you can peel the skins off the base of the asparagus spears.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 12 minutes, until the cheese begins to brown. If you like your cheese crisp and golden, place the asparagus under the broiler for a minute or two at the end.
You can use just parmesan cheese, or mix it with mozzarella, breadcrumbs, or Italian seasoning. If you want to add extra flavour, include some garlic powder or fresh minced garlic. Sprinkle or scatter the cheese and other toppings over the asparagus before baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It is best to eat them cold.
