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Roasted Asparagus with Garlic and Parmesan

This dish features fresh asparagus roasted at high heat until tender and caramelized, developing smoky, crispy edges. Tossed with fragrant garlic and topped with melted parmesan, it transforms simple vegetables into a rich, savory side with a beautiful appearance. The final dish offers a crispy, cheesy crust with tender, charred spears—a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: European
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 bunch asparagus firm, bright green, with tight tips
  • 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced or crushed
  • 1/4 cup olive oil good quality for rich flavor
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • to taste salt sea salt preferred
  • to taste black pepper freshly cracked

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife
  • Small bowl
  • Grater or microplane

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus, about 1-2 cm from the bottom, until the stalks are uniform in length.
  3. Spread the asparagus evenly on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overlapping.
  4. Drizzle the asparagus generously with olive oil, then toss gently with your hands or tongs to coat each spear thoroughly.
  5. Sprinkle salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the spears, tossing again to distribute evenly.
  6. Scatter thin slices or crushed garlic evenly over the asparagus, ensuring flavor reaches all parts.
  7. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are caramelized and spears are tender when pierced with a fork.
  8. Halfway through, gently shake or turn the baking sheet to promote even browning.
  9. Remove the asparagus from the oven once they are crispy at the edges and tender in the center.
  10. Immediately sprinkle the hot spears with freshly grated parmesan cheese so it melts into the warm vegetables.
  11. If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish for brightness and serve immediately, enjoying the crispy, cheesy, smoky-sweet flavors.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, leave the asparagus in the oven a bit longer, but keep an eye to prevent burning. Adding lemon juice just before serving brightens the dish beautifully.