This tasty dish features fresh asparagus and juicy tomatoes, all roasted to perfection. Sprinkled with parmesan and drizzled with balsamic, it’s colorful and full of flavor!
Every bite is a wonderful mix of fresh veggies and that cheesy goodness. I love serving it alongside pasta or grilled chicken—the perfect match for a dinner that’s sure to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for this dish. If asparagus isn’t available, try green beans or broccoli. They roast well and add similar crunch!
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy. If you can’t find them, grape tomatoes work too. Canned diced tomatoes can be a substitute, just drain them well.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano is a great option. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
Olive Oil: This oil brings richness to the dish. Avocado oil or any other cooking oil can do the job if you prefer. Just keep in mind that they may alter the flavor slightly.
Balsamic Vinegar: It adds tanginess. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work, but reduce the amount slightly, as they are sharper.
How Do I Make Sure My Asparagus Roasts Perfectly?
Roasting asparagus is simple, but a few tips can help you get it just right. Start with uniform thickness. Thin asparagus cooks faster than thick, so aim for similar-sized spears for even cooking.
- Arrange asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps them roast instead of steam.
- Toss them with the oil mixture well, ensuring each piece gets coated. This adds flavor and helps with browning.
- Keep an eye on them while roasting. Check for tenderness during the last 5 minutes.
- Let them cool for a bit after roasting; the flavors will continue to deepen.
How to Make Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes & Balsamic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook in the oven. In total, you should set aside about 30 minutes to enjoy this delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get it nice and warm for roasting the veggies.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Take your fresh asparagus and trim off the tough ends. Then, arrange the trimmed asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet. This ensures they roast evenly.
3. Make the Flavorful Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). This tasty mix is what makes our asparagus shine!
4. Coat the Asparagus:
Drizzle your olive oil mixture over the asparagus. Use your hands or a spatula to toss the asparagus until they’re evenly coated with that yummy flavor.
5. Add the Tomatoes:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over the asparagus. These little bursts of flavor will blend perfectly with the roasted asparagus!
6. Top with Parmesan:
Now, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously on top of the asparagus and tomatoes. Don’t be shy—it really adds a delicious crunch!
7. Roast Away:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the asparagus is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the dish cool slightly. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil for that beautiful touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Parmesan Roasted Asparagus warm as a delightful side dish or light main course. Enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or even mozzarella for a creamier texture. Just ensure to adjust the amount to your liking, depending on the cheese’s intensity.
What Should I Do If I’m Using Thick Asparagus?
If your asparagus spears are thick, you may want to increase the roasting time slightly to ensure they become tender. Check them around the 20-minute mark, and add a few extra minutes if necessary. Just be careful not to overcook to keep some crunch!
How Can I Store Leftover Asparagus?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. They can also be reheated in a skillet for a more even heat.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the asparagus and tomato mixture ahead of time! Just toss them with the oil and seasoning, cover, and refrigerate. Then, sprinkle on the Parmesan and roast right before serving for best texture and taste.
