Description
Lemon Parmesan Roasted Asparagus brings zesty Mediterranean flavors to tender green spears kissed with nutty cheese. Crisp edges and tangy notes create an elegant side dish perfect for dinner tables craving simple, sophisticated elegance.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus
- Sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Spices:
- 1–2 teaspoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Light sprinkle of red pepper flakes
Citrus and Herbs:
- Zest and juice of ½ medium lemon, preferably organic
- Lemon wedges from the remaining ½ lemon
- Small handful of fresh mint or parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Heat oven to 425°F (218°C) and position rack in middle position with a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Trim woody ends from asparagus spears by holding each stalk and gently snapping at natural breaking point.
- Arrange asparagus in single layer on prepared baking sheet, maintaining space between stalks to ensure even roasting.
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil evenly across asparagus, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Roll asparagus to coat thoroughly in oil and seasonings, ensuring maximum flavor coverage.
- Roast in preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on asparagus thickness, until edges become slightly crisp and tips turn golden brown.
- Remove from oven and immediately transfer to serving platter while maintaining optimal temperature.
- Grate fresh Parmesan cheese directly over hot asparagus, allowing residual heat to slightly melt the cheese.
- Sprinkle finely chopped lemon zest and squeeze fresh lemon juice across roasted asparagus for bright, citrusy notes.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh mint or parsley and red pepper flakes for additional complexity and visual appeal.
- Serve with extra lemon wedges on side, allowing guests to customize their flavor intensity.
Notes
- Quick and elegant side dish that transforms humble asparagus into a restaurant-worthy delicacy.
- Perfectly roasted spears deliver a crispy exterior with tender, flavorful interior that melts in your mouth.
- Zesty lemon and salty Parmesan create a vibrant flavor combination that elevates this simple vegetable.
- Minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation make this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
- Red pepper flakes offer an optional spicy kick that complements the bright, fresh lemon notes.
- Versatile recipe works beautifully as a light lunch, dinner side, or impressive party appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: <5 mg