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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- Distribute asparagus spears across the prepared baking sheet, positioning cherry tomato halves around them in a single layer.
- Generously coat the vegetables with olive oil, ensuring even coverage. Disperse minced garlic, salt, and black pepper uniformly across the surface.
- Gently tear fresh basil leaves into smaller fragments, sprinkling them delicately over the vegetable ensemble.
- Generously dust the entire mixture with grated Parmesan cheese, creating a light but comprehensive coating.
- 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.
- Extract the roasted vegetables from the oven. Elegantly drizzle balsamic reduction across the dish, allowing it to cascade over the roasted ingredients.
- 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