Description
Mediterranean-inspired seasonal Parmesan roasted asparagus and tomatoes sparkle with herbal complexity and simple elegance. Crisp vegetables caramelize under sharp cheese, delivering robust flavors that complement grilled meats or pasta dishes you will savor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 pint (475 ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup (120 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 7 large thin basil leaves
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Balsamic reduction (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat: Warm the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or cooking spray.
- Arrange Vegetables: Spread asparagus spears in a single layer, interspersing halved cherry tomatoes throughout the sheet for an artistic presentation.
- Season Generously: Lavish the vegetables with extra virgin olive oil, then dust with minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Herb and Cheese Topping: Gently scatter torn basil leaves across the vegetables, then blanket the surface with a gracious layer of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Roast to Perfection: Slide the baking sheet into the heated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, watching for the asparagus to become tender, tomatoes to soften, and cheese to transform into a golden, crispy crust.
- Finish and Serve: Carefully extract the baking sheet from the oven, embellish with a delicate drizzle of balsamic reduction, and transfer the aromatic, cheese-crusted vegetables to a serving platter while piping hot.
Notes
- Prep Like a Pro: Trim asparagus woody ends and slice tomatoes evenly to ensure consistent roasting and beautiful presentation.
- Seasoning Secrets: Use fresh minced garlic and high-quality Parmesan for maximum flavor depth and aromatic richness.
- Roasting Precision: Watch closely during the 15-20 minute cooking window to prevent burning while achieving perfect golden-crispy cheese and tender vegetables.
- Serving Suggestion: Drizzle balsamic reduction just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and prevent soggy vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg