Zesty Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes and Balsamic Recipe

Crisp, vibrant asparagus meets its delectable companion in this parmesan roasted asparagus with tomatoes and balsamic recipe that promises a burst of Mediterranean flavors.

Seasonal produce dances together on a single sheet pan, creating magic with minimal effort.

Juicy tomatoes caramelize alongside tender green spears, developing rich depth of character.

Fragrant herbs and sharp parmesan cheese complement the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.

Salt and pepper whisper subtle notes that enhance each ingredient’s unique profile.

Balsamic glaze adds a tangy elegance, transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Savor this quick, nutritious side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs About Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes and Balsamic

• Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes or larger tomatoes cut into smaller chunks. Just ensure they’re roughly the same size for even roasting.

• Do I need fresh basil or can I use dried?

Fresh basil provides the best flavor and aroma. If fresh isn’t available, you can use dried basil, but use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

• What if I don't have Parmesan cheese?

You can replace Parmesan with other hard, salty cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. These alternatives will provide a similar texture and flavor profile.

• How do I know when the asparagus is perfectly roasted?

The asparagus should look bright green, be tender when pierced with a fork, and have slightly crispy edges.

What Makes Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes and Balsamic So Delicious

• Craft a Gourmet Side Dish: Transform simple vegetables into a restaurant-worthy plate with minimal kitchen skills required, creating an impressive dish that looks and tastes professionally prepared.
• Boost Nutritional Value: Pack a powerful punch of vitamins and minerals from fresh asparagus and tomatoes, making this recipe a deliciously healthy addition to any meal.
• Versatile Veggie Companion: Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, fish, or as a standalone vegetarian option that suits multiple dietary preferences and meal styles.
• Quick Weeknight Wonder: Prepare and cook in just a few simple steps, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort and cleanup, ideal for busy home cooks seeking a delicious vegetable side.

Components Needed for Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes and Balsamic

• Asparagus Spears: Tender green vegetable with a crisp texture that serves as the main star of this roasted dish.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy small tomatoes that add bright color and burst of flavor to the roasted vegetables.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Aromatic herb that provides a fresh and fragrant garnish to the roasted dish.

• Olive Oil: Smooth oil that helps roast the vegetables and adds a rich, smooth flavor.
• Minced Garlic: Pungent ingredient that brings depth and complexity to the vegetable medley.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.

• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and salty cheese that creates a golden, crispy topping for the roasted vegetables.
• Balsamic Reduction: Sweet and tangy sauce that adds a sophisticated finish to the roasted dish.

Directions for Preparing Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes and Balsamic

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Surface

Turn your oven to a toasty 400F (200C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Arrange Veggie Stars

Spread out your fresh asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet. Scatter cherry tomatoes around the asparagus, creating a colorful vegetable landscape.

Step 3: Season with Flavor Boosters

• Olive oil
• Minced garlic
• Salt
• Black pepper

Distribute these seasonings evenly across the vegetables to ensure maximum taste in every bite.

Step 4: Add Herbal Magic

Gently tear fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces. Sprinkle these aromatic herbs over the vegetables, releasing their incredible fragrance.

Step 5: Cheese Finale

Generously shower grated Parmesan cheese over the top, creating a golden, crispy blanket.

Step 6: Roast to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes until asparagus becomes tender, tomatoes soften, and cheese turns golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Final Flavor Flourish

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle a rich balsamic reduction over the roasted vegetables for an extra punch of tangy sweetness.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your masterpiece to a serving plate and enjoy immediately as a spectacular side dish that will wow everyone at the table.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes and Balsamic

• Trim asparagus ends carefully to ensure even cooking and tender texture.
• Choose fresh, firm cherry tomatoes for the best burst of sweetness and juiciness.
• Adjust roasting time based on asparagus thickness – thinner spears need less time to prevent overcooking.
• Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for richer, more intense flavor profile.
• Drizzle balsamic reduction just before serving to maintain its vibrant taste and glossy appearance.

Variations to Try with Parmesan Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes

• Mediterranean Medley: Replace Parmesan with crumbled feta cheese, add sliced Kalamata olives, and sprinkle dried oregano for a Greek-inspired version.
• Spicy Southwestern: Mix in diced jalapeños, swap Parmesan for cotija cheese, and add a dash of chili powder for a zesty kick.
• Herb Garden Blend: Incorporate fresh thyme, rosemary, and chives instead of basil, and use a mix of grated pecorino and Parmesan cheeses for deeper flavor complexity.
• Prosciutto Crisp: Drape thin slices of prosciutto over the asparagus before roasting, which will create a crispy, salty layer that complements the vegetables perfectly.

Best Pairings to Serve with Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes and Balsamic

• Elevate Protein Pairing: Grilled chicken or pan-seared salmon beautifully complement the roasted asparagus, adding lean protein that matches the dish's light Mediterranean flavors.
• Wine Wonderland: Choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Pinot Grigio that cuts through the rich Parmesan and balances the tangy balsamic reduction with bright, refreshing notes.
• Bread Buddy: Serve alongside crusty Italian bread or garlic crostini to soak up the delicious olive oil and balsamic drippings, creating a perfect textural contrast to the roasted vegetables.
• Salad Sidekick: Prepare a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to add a peppery, fresh element that enhances the roasted vegetable's deep, caramelized flavors.

How to Keep Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes and Balsamic Fresh

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the balsamic reduction separate to prevent soggy vegetables.
• Warm on medium power for 30-45 seconds, stirring midway to ensure even heating. Add a splash of water to prevent drying out.
• Spread leftovers on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 350F for 5-7 minutes. Remove foil for the last 2 minutes to crisp up the Parmesan.
• Enjoy straight from the refrigerator as a chilled salad topping or quick snack, perfect for lunch boxes or picnics.

Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes and Balsamic Recipe

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4.9 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crisp parmesan roasted asparagus dances with juicy tomatoes in this Mediterranean-inspired side dish, offering a symphony of flavors. Balsamic glaze adds tangy elegance while parmesan cheese creates a golden, irresistible crust you’ll crave with every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables:

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

Herbs and Cheese:

• 7 large thin basil leaves
• 1/2 cup (4 ounces) grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Oils:

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
• Balsamic reduction (store-bought or homemade)

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Instructions

1. Arrange the oven rack in the middle position and heat to 400F (200C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light oil coating.
2. Distribute asparagus spears across the prepared baking sheet, positioning cherry tomato halves around them in a single layer.
3. Generously coat the vegetables with olive oil, ensuring even coverage. Disperse minced garlic, salt, and black pepper uniformly across the surface.
4. Gently tear fresh basil leaves into smaller fragments, sprinkling them delicately over the vegetable ensemble.
5. Generously dust the entire mixture with grated Parmesan cheese, creating a light but comprehensive coating.
6. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes, monitoring until asparagus turns tender, tomatoes soften, and cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling crust.
7. Extract the roasted vegetables from the oven. Elegantly drizzle balsamic reduction across the dish, allowing it to cascade over the roasted ingredients.
8. Transfer immediately to serving plate, presenting the vibrant, aromatic side dish while still piping hot.

Notes

• Choose tender, thin asparagus spears for the most delicate and succulent roasting experience.
• Fresh cherry tomatoes at peak ripeness will provide the best burst of sweet and tangy flavor during roasting.
• Always pat vegetables dry before roasting to ensure crispy edges and prevent steaming instead of caramelization.
• For a dairy-free version, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or toasted pine nuts to maintain a rich, savory profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 165 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 230 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 12 mg