Asparagus Baked With Parmesan Cheese

🍽️ Asparagus Baked With Parmesan Cheese: A Delicious Delight 🧀

Asparagus baked with Parmesan cheese is a delightful and easy-to-prepare dish that combines the earthy flavors of asparagus with the rich and nutty notes of Parmesan cheese. It’s a wonderful side dish that can elevate any meal. Here’s everything you need to know about it:

📜 History:
The combination of asparagus and cheese is a classic one that has been enjoyed for centuries. Asparagus has been cultivated and enjoyed for its unique flavor and health benefits since ancient times. Parmesan cheese, with its origins in Italy, has been used in various culinary applications for centuries. The two ingredients were likely combined to create this delicious dish, although the exact origin of the recipe remains unclear.

🥦 Components:

• Fresh asparagus spears (typically 1 bunch)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: garlic, lemon zest, or herbs for added flavor

👨‍🍳 Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare Asparagus: Wash the asparagus and trim the tough ends. You can do this by holding each spear and bending it; it will naturally snap where the tough part ends. This usually removes about an inch or two from the base.

3. Season: Place the asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. If you like, you can also add minced garlic, lemon zest, or your favorite herbs at this stage for extra flavor.

4. Toss and Coat: Toss the asparagus to ensure it’s evenly coated with oil and seasonings.

5. Sprinkle Parmesan: Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus. The cheese will form a delicious crispy crust during baking.

6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the cheese is golden and slightly crispy.

7. Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and serve immediately. The combination of tender asparagus and crispy Parmesan cheese is a treat for the taste buds.

🕒 Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare asparagus baked with Parmesan cheese is approximately 20-25 minutes. This includes the time for preheating the oven, preparation, and baking.

🍽️ This dish is not only delicious but also healthy, making it a great choice for a side dish. Its simplicity and wonderful combination of flavors have made it a favorite in many households. So, whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal, give this dish a try, and enjoy the blend of flavors and textures that it offers! 😋👌🧀🌱

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Asparagus Baked With Parmesan Cheese:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximately 4-6 spears):

• Calories: 60-80 kcal
• Total Fat: 4-6 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
• Cholesterol: 10-15 mg
• Sodium: 100-150 mg
• Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
  • Sugars: 1-2 grams
• Protein: 3-4 grams
• Vitamin A: 15-20% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 15-20% of the DV
• Calcium: 10-15% of the DV
• Iron: 10-15% of the DV

Health Information:

1. Low in Calories: Asparagus is a low-calorie vegetable, making it a good choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.

2. High in Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.

3. Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamins A and C, which are important for maintaining healthy skin and a strong immune system, and calcium, which is vital for bone health.

4. Protein: While asparagus is not a significant source of protein, it still contributes to your daily protein intake.

5. Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese provides protein and calcium. However, it’s also relatively high in saturated fat and sodium, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.

6. Antioxidants: Asparagus contains various antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

7. Low Carbohydrate: Asparagus is low in carbohydrates, which can be a good choice for those following low-carb diets.

8. Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

9. Heart-Healthy: Asparagus contains folate and potassium, both of which contribute to heart health.

Remember that the exact nutritional values may vary based on the portion size and specific ingredients used in your recipe. It’s also worth noting that the health impact can be influenced by factors like portion size and overall dietary habits. Enjoy this dish in moderation and as part of a balanced diet for the best health outcomes.