Lemon Parmesan Roasted Asparagus

Welcome to another delightful recipe on our blog! Today, we’re diving into a simple yet elegant side dish that’s perfect for any meal: Lemon Parmesan Roasted Asparagus. This dish combines the earthy flavors of fresh asparagus with the bright zest of lemon and the savory goodness of Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick, easy, and healthy option that you’ll find yourself making over and over again.

Ingredients

• 1 large bunch (about 1 pound) fresh asparagus
• 1 to 2 teaspoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Zest and juice of ½ medium lemon, preferably organic
• Lemon wedges, from the remaining ½ lemon
• Sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese
• Small handful of fresh mint or parsley, finely chopped
• Light sprinkle of red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus and discard them. Place the asparagus on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the asparagus to coat them evenly.
3. Roast the Asparagus: Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 9 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the asparagus spears. They should be tender yet still slightly crisp.
4. Add Finishing Touches: Once roasted, transfer the asparagus to a serving platter. While still hot, add the lemon zest and juice, and sprinkle with finely grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh mint or parsley and a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
5. Serve: Serve the roasted asparagus with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: 150 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Tips and Variations

• Asparagus Selection: Choose asparagus spears that are bright green and firm to the touch. Avoid those that are wilted or have mushy tips.
• Cheese Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a vegan Parmesan substitute to keep this dish dairy-free.
• Herb Swap: Feel free to swap the mint or parsley with your favorite fresh herbs like basil, dill, or cilantro.

This Lemon Parmesan Roasted Asparagus is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or even a simple pasta dish. Enjoy this healthy side dish and elevate your meals with its fresh and vibrant flavors!

Let me know if you tried this recipe and how it turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking!