Asparagus Parmigiano

🌱🧀 Asparagus Parmigiano: A Delectable Delight 🌱🧀

Asparagus Parmigiano is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavors of asparagus with the richness of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. This dish is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. Let’s dive into its history, components, preparation, and cooking time:

History:
Asparagus Parmigiano is a modern twist on the classic Italian dish, Asparagus Parmesan. The history of asparagus dates back to ancient times, with evidence of its consumption in ancient Egypt and Greece. Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, often referred to as the “King of Cheeses,” has a long history dating back over 900 years in Italy. The combination of these two ingredients in this specific dish likely emerged more recently as chefs sought to create innovative, flavorful recipes.

Components:

• Fresh asparagus spears
• Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (grated or shaved)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: lemon zest, toasted almonds, or breadcrumbs for added flavor and texture

Preparation:

1. Start by washing and trimming the asparagus. Snap off the tough ends by holding the asparagus spear at each end and bending it until it naturally breaks.
2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Place the cleaned asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Toss the asparagus to ensure it’s evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.
5. Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s tender but still crisp.
6. While the asparagus is roasting, prepare the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese by grating or shaving it.
7. Once the asparagus is done, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving platter.
8. Sprinkle the roasted asparagus generously with the grated or shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
9. If desired, you can add extra toppings like lemon zest, toasted almonds, or breadcrumbs for additional flavor and texture.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Time Needed:
The preparation and cooking time for Asparagus Parmigiano is relatively quick. It takes about 10-15 minutes to roast the asparagus, and the overall preparation time is around 20-25 minutes. So, in approximately 30 minutes, you can have this delicious dish ready to serve.

👩‍🍳👨‍🍳 Enjoy this mouthwatering dish, and remember that Asparagus Parmigiano is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste. It’s a perfect balance of flavors, with the fresh, tender asparagus complemented by the nutty, savory notes of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Buon appetito! 🇮🇹🍽️

🥦🧀 Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Asparagus Parmigiano 🥦🧀

Asparagus Parmigiano is not only a delicious dish but also a healthy one. It combines the nutritional benefits of asparagus with the richness of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Here are some key nutrition facts and health information for this dish:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values):
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.

• Serving Size: 1 cup of cooked asparagus with Parmigiano-Reggiano
• Calories: Approximately 80-90 calories
• Protein: About 5-7 grams
• Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Fat: 6-8 grams
• Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
• Cholesterol: 10-15 milligrams
• Sodium: 150-250 milligrams
• Vitamin A: About 20-25% of the daily recommended intake (DRI)
• Vitamin C: Approximately 10-15% of DRI
• Calcium: 15-20% of DRI
• Iron: 10-15% of DRI
• Folate (Vitamin B9): 20-30% of DRI

Health Information:

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

2. Rich in Fiber: Asparagus provides dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health and can help you feel full, potentially aiding in weight management.

3. High in Vitamins: Asparagus is a good source of essential vitamins, including vitamin A (beta-carotene), vitamin C, and folate. These vitamins play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and supporting the immune system.

4. Mineral Content: Asparagus contains essential minerals like calcium and iron. Calcium is vital for bone health, while iron is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and oxygen transport in the body.

5. Protein: Asparagus also provides a moderate amount of protein, contributing to overall nutrition.

6. Healthy Fat: While Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese does contain saturated fat, it is also a source of healthy fats, such as monounsaturated fats, which can have a positive impact on heart health when consumed in moderation.

7. Sodium Consideration: The sodium content can vary depending on the amount of cheese and salt used in the recipe. It’s essential to be mindful of sodium intake, especially if you have dietary restrictions.

Overall, Asparagus Parmigiano can be a part of a balanced diet, offering a mix of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. To make it even healthier, consider using less cheese and practicing portion control. This dish is a flavorful and nutritious way to enjoy asparagus while savoring the richness of Parmigiano-Reggiano.