Parmesan Asparagus
Nothing could be more simple than this side dish. Since it has just four ingredients, I assemble it in no time, then pop it into the oven for about 15 minutes. It turns out perfect every time.
Nothing could be more simple than this side dish. Since it has just four ingredients, I assemble it in no time, then pop it into the oven for about 15 minutes. It turns out perfect every time.
- Carbohydrate 7.62487405448846 g
- Cholesterol 35.9005898875 mg
- Fat 13.7914892933519 g
- Fiber 3.8235531388144 g
- Protein 10.1511288788558 g
- Saturated Fat 8.67730270627846 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -12 servings. (209g)
- Sodium 340.328251778462 mg
- Sugar 3.80132091567407 g
- Trans Fat 0.790376126691926 g
- Calories 184 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large saucepan, bring 1/2 in. of water to a boil.
- Add asparagus; cover and boil for 3 minutes or until crisp-tender.
- Drain.
- Arrange asparagus in a greased 13x9-in. baking dish.
- Drizzle with butter.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and pepper.
- Bake, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Parmesan Asparagus: A Simple Side Dish Delight
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This Parmesan Asparagus recipe has become a staple in my weeknight dinner routine, and I'm thrilled to share it with you. It’s the perfect complement to grilled chicken, salmon, or even a simple steak. The best part? It takes less than 20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it ideal for those nights when time is of the essence.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Four ingredients – fresh asparagus, butter, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of pepper – combine to create a symphony of flavors. The asparagus retains its vibrant green color and delicate texture, while the melted Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory richness that elevates the entire dish. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both elegant and effortlessly casual, suitable for a weeknight family dinner or a more sophisticated gathering.
I've experimented with different variations, and honestly, I haven't found a need to change anything. The simplicity is perfect. The ingredients work so well together, perfectly balancing each other's strengths. I typically use fresh, locally sourced asparagus when it’s in season. However, frozen asparagus works well in a pinch, just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The melted butter adds a lovely richness and helps the Parmesan cheese stick to the asparagus spears.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust the amount of Parmesan cheese to suit your taste. Some prefer a heavy, cheesy coating, while others prefer a lighter touch. I often add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, but that's entirely optional. Experiment and find what works best for your palate.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe is also incredibly healthy. Asparagus is packed with nutrients, and the Parmesan cheese adds a boost of protein and calcium. It's a guilt-free side dish that you can feel good about serving your family. The entire preparation, from start to finish, takes less than 20 minutes which includes cooking time. You can prepare your dish while you take care of the main course or even put your main course into the oven together with the Parmesan Asparagus and you'll have both courses ready at roughly the same time. There are many other dishes that work well in this style, and I'll share those with you in future blog posts.
I encourage you to give this recipe a try. It's a surefire way to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Let me know in the comments how it turns out! And remember, cooking should be enjoyable, even when you're short on time. This Parmesan Asparagus recipe is a testament to that. It is also possible to add some other veggies into the mix - something that works incredibly well with the Parmesan Asparagus is adding some cherry tomatoes. You can also add herbs such as rosemary, thyme or oregano. As you can see there are almost limitless variations to this dish. However, don't be afraid to experiment.
This simple side dish has become a go-to in my kitchen. It’s adaptable, delicious and always a hit, no matter the occasion. What are your favorite quick and easy side dish recipes? I'd love to hear about them in the comments below!
