Imagine a side dish so irresistible that it steals the spotlight from the main course. This Asparagus with Almonds and Parmesan is not just a simple vegetable recipe—it's a culinary transformation that turns humble asparagus into a gourmet experience. With a perfect balance of crispy roasted asparagus, toasted nutty almonds, and rich, melty Parmesan, this dish promises to elevate your dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly under cold running water, removing any dirt or debris. Trim the tough woody ends by holding each spear and gently bending until it naturally breaks at the point where the tender part meets the tough stem.
- Pat the asparagus dry completely with clean kitchen towels or paper towels to ensure proper roasting and prevent steaming.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), which will provide the ideal high heat for roasting the asparagus and creating a slightly crisp exterior.
- Place the trimmed asparagus on a large rimmed baking sheet, spreading them in a single layer to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the asparagus, then use your hands to toss and coat each spear completely, ensuring they are glistening with oil.
- Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the asparagus, distributing the seasonings evenly.
- Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender and have developed slight charred edges.
- While the asparagus is roasting, lightly toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning, until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove the asparagus from the oven and immediately sprinkle the toasted almonds and grated Parmesan cheese over the hot spears.
- Transfer the asparagus to a serving platter, ensuring the almonds and cheese are evenly distributed.
- Serve immediately while the asparagus is hot and the cheese is slightly melted, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm asparagus with tight, compact tips for the best flavor and texture.
- Always pat asparagus completely dry before roasting to achieve that desirable crispy exterior.
- Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for better flavor and even coating.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet—give the asparagus spears room to roast, not steam.
- Watch the almonds carefully when toasting; they can burn quickly.
- Serve immediately after adding cheese and almonds to enjoy the optimal temperature and texture.
- For a variation, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
