Roasted asparagus with lemon and Parmesan is a classic side dish that's perfect for any meal. It's simple, easy to make, and packed with flavor. The tender asparagus pairs perfectly with the bright and zesty lemon and the salty Parmesan cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the trimmed asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat the asparagus evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roast the asparagus for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
- While the asparagus is roasting, zest the lemon and squeeze out the juice.
- In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- When the asparagus is done, remove it from the oven and place it on a serving platter.
- Drizzle the lemon and Parmesan mixture over the asparagus.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and variations
- If you like your asparagus a bit more crisp, reduce the roasting time by a few minutes.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add more zest or juice to the Parmesan mixture.
- Experiment with other herbs and spices, like garlic or thyme, to give the dish a different twist.
- This dish can also be served cold as a refreshing salad.
Conclusion
Roasted asparagus with lemon and Parmesan is a classic and delicious side dish that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its bright and zesty flavors, it's sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Give it a try and impress your guests with this simple yet elegant dish.