Description
Discover a flavor-packed way to enjoy a healthy side dish with the Garlic Parmesan Asparagus Bake. Combining the earthy tones of asparagus with the robust flavors of garlic, Parmesan, mozzarella, and a dash of chili pepper flakes, this recipe is easy to prepare and delightful to serve. It’s perfect alongside your main course at any meal, offering a lovely blend of texture and taste that will impress your guests or delight your family.
Ingredients
- 2 bunches asparagus
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp chili pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (or feta cheese as an alternative)
- Optional Garnish: fresh parsley and lemon wedges
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425° F (220° C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Asparagus
Trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears and lay them out on the lined baking sheet.
3. Season the Asparagus
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chili pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus on the baking sheet. Next, sprinkle the mixed seasoning over the asparagus and toss everything together to ensure the spears are evenly coated. Arrange them in a single layer across the baking sheet.
4. Roasting
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the asparagus for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the spears.
5. Add Cheese and Final Roasting
Remove the asparagus from the oven and evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people, making it a versatile side dish for family dinners or gatherings. The total preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 12 minutes.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the asparagus gently in the oven or in the microwave until just warm. This helps maintain its texture and flavor.
- Do not freeze: Freezing is not recommended as it can make the asparagus mushy and affect the quality of the cheese.
Conclusion
The Garlic Parmesan Asparagus Bake is a splendid blend of taste and simplicity, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enrich their meal with a nutritious and flavorful vegetable side dish. The combination of melted cheese, aromatic spices, and tender asparagus provides a delightful culinary experience. This dish not only caters to health-conscious individuals but also appeals to anyone who enjoys a touch of gourmet in everyday meals. Enjoy this vibrant side dish with your next dinner and watch it become a new favorite!
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Garlic Parmesan Asparagus Bake
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Description
Discover a flavor-packed way to enjoy a healthy side dish with the Garlic Parmesan Asparagus Bake. Combining the earthy tones of asparagus with the robust flavors of garlic, Parmesan, mozzarella, and a dash of chili pepper flakes, this recipe is easy to prepare and delightful to serve. It’s perfect alongside your main course at any meal, offering a lovely blend of texture and taste that will impress your guests or delight your family.
Ingredients
- 2 bunches asparagus
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp chili pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (or feta cheese as an alternative)
- Optional Garnish: fresh parsley and lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 425° F (220° C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Prepare Asparagus Trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears and lay them out on the lined baking sheet.
- Season the Asparagus In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chili pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus on the baking sheet. Next, sprinkle the mixed seasoning over the asparagus and toss everything together to ensure the spears are evenly coated. Arrange them in a single layer across the baking sheet.
- Roasting Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the asparagus for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the spears.
- Add Cheese and Final Roasting Remove the asparagus from the oven and evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes