Description
Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes create a Mediterranean-inspired symphony of flavors dancing on your plate. Crisp asparagus and juicy tomatoes emerge golden and caramelized, promising a simple yet elegant side dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup (150 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
Cheese and Herbs:
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Dressing and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) balsamic vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), creating an optimal roasting environment for vegetables.
- Trim asparagus and halve cherry tomatoes, preparing them for a flavorful transformation.
- Transfer vegetables to a large mixing bowl, drizzling olive oil and balsamic vinegar to ensure complete coverage.
- Generously season with salt and pepper, gently tossing to distribute the seasonings evenly across the vegetables.
- Arrange a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread the vegetable mixture in a single layer to promote uniform roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, allowing asparagus to become tender and tomatoes to develop a slight char.
- Remove from oven and immediately shower with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, creating a savory coating.
- Switch oven to broil and return the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to achieve a golden, bubbling cheese topping.
- Finish by garnishing with fragrant fresh basil leaves, adding a vibrant herbal note to the dish.
- Serve immediately while warm, presenting a harmonious blend of roasted vegetables and melted cheese.
Notes
- Adjust the roasting time based on the thickness of your asparagus spears to prevent overcooking or undercooking.
- Choose fresh, firm asparagus with vibrant green color and tight tips for the best texture and flavor.
- Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for a richer, more complex taste in the final dish.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan cheese to maintain the cheesy flavor profile.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to add extra depth to the roasted vegetables.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, spread the vegetables with more space between them on the baking sheet.
- Opt for organic cherry tomatoes when possible to enhance the natural sweetness of the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg