Asparagus Parmesan is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that combines the earthy flavor of asparagus with the rich, nutty taste of Parmesan cheese. It’s a fantastic dish for those who love both vegetables and cheese. 🧀🌱
History:
The history of Asparagus Parmesan is not as well-documented as some other classic dishes, but it likely originated as a modern twist on traditional asparagus recipes. Asparagus itself has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Romans. Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, hails from Italy and is renowned for its distinctive flavor and quality. Combining these two ingredients in a dish like Asparagus Parmesan is a delightful fusion of flavors.
Components:
To prepare Asparagus Parmesan, you will need the following components:
- Fresh asparagus spears 🌱
- Grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- Olive oil 🫒
- Salt and pepper 🧂
- Optional: lemon juice 🍋, garlic, or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Steps to Prepare Asparagus Parmesan:
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Prep the Asparagus: Begin by washing the asparagus spears and trimming off the tough ends. You can snap off the woody ends or use a knife to trim them.
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Season and Coat: Place the asparagus in a baking dish or on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zest or sprinkle some minced garlic for added flavor.
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Roast: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the asparagus for about 10-15 minutes or until they are tender but still crisp. The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the asparagus.
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Add Parmesan: About 5 minutes before the asparagus is done, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the spears. The cheese will melt and form a golden crust.
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Serve: Once the asparagus is tender and the Parmesan is lightly browned, remove it from the oven. Serve hot, and garnish with additional Parmesan and a dash of freshly ground black pepper if desired.
Time Required:
The total time needed to prepare Asparagus Parmesan will depend on your cooking skills and the quantity you’re making. On average, it should take around 20-25 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time. It’s a quick and simple side dish that can complement a variety of main courses. 😋👨🍳👩🍳
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Asparagus Parmesan:
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 4-5 asparagus spears):
- Calories: Approximately 60-70 calories
- Protein: About 5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 4-5 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 1-2 grams
- Fat: Approximately 4-5 grams
- Saturated Fat: Around 2 grams
- Cholesterol: About 10-15 milligrams
- Sodium: Approximately 150-200 milligrams
- Vitamin A: About 20% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: Around 15-20% DV
- Vitamin K: About 30-40% DV
- Folate: Approximately 25-30% DV
- Calcium: About 10-15% DV
- Iron: Around 10-15% DV
Health Information:
Asparagus Parmesan can be a healthy and nutritious side dish:
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Low in Calories: It is relatively low in calories, making it a good choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Rich in Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, which can help support digestive health and promote a feeling of fullness.
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High in Vitamins: Asparagus is rich in essential vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. These vitamins are important for various bodily functions, including immune support and bone health.
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Minerals: It provides essential minerals like calcium and iron, which are important for bone health and overall well-being.
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Low in Saturated Fat: While Asparagus Parmesan does contain some saturated fat from the cheese, it’s generally a low-fat dish when prepared in moderation.
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Antioxidants: Asparagus contains antioxidants that may help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
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Low in Sodium: The sodium content can be controlled by adjusting the amount of salt and Parmesan cheese added to the dish.
Remember that the nutritional content can vary based on factors such as portion size and the specific ingredients used in your recipe. Overall, Asparagus Parmesan can be a healthy and delicious addition to your meal, providing essential nutrients while keeping the calorie count in check. 🌱🧀🍽️
