Description
A simple and elegant side dish featuring tender roasted asparagus brightened with fresh lemon and finished with savory Parmesan cheese for a light yet flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange trimmed asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Toss gently to coat.
- Roast for 10–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until tender but still slightly crisp.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with lemon zest and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese so it slightly melts from the heat.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Grill or sauté asparagus for a different cooking method.
- Add minced garlic before roasting for extra flavor.
- Finish with toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for crunch.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
