Asparagus with Parmesan crust is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the earthy flavors of asparagus with the savory richness of Parmesan cheese. This dish is often served as a side or appetizer and is known for its vibrant colors and delightful taste. Here’s a detailed response with lots of information, just as you requested, along with emojis for added flair! 🌱🧀
What is Asparagus with Parmesan Crust?
Asparagus with Parmesan crust is a delectable dish featuring fresh asparagus spears coated with a crispy layer of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. The asparagus is usually blanched or roasted until tender, and then it’s baked with a cheesy crust until golden and crunchy. This dish offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, with the tender asparagus contrasting beautifully with the crispy Parmesan topping.
History of Asparagus with Parmesan Crust:
The history of this particular dish isn’t well-documented, but it combines two classic ingredients: asparagus and Parmesan cheese. Asparagus has been cultivated for thousands of years and was a favorite of the ancient Romans. Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a well-known Italian cheese with a history dating back several centuries. The marriage of these two ingredients in this recipe likely evolved over time as a way to highlight the unique qualities of each.
Components of Asparagus with Parmesan Crust:
- Asparagus: Fresh asparagus spears are the star of the dish. They are usually trimmed to remove tough ends.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich and nutty flavor, along with a crispy texture.
- Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are used to create the crust, adding a crunchy contrast to the asparagus.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is often used to coat the asparagus before roasting or baking.
- Seasonings: Common seasonings include salt, pepper, and sometimes garlic or herbs for added flavor.
Steps to Prepare Asparagus with Parmesan Crust:
- Prep Asparagus: Wash and trim the asparagus spears, removing the tough ends.
- Coat with Olive Oil: Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Prepare Parmesan Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix grated Parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs. You can also add minced garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
- Coat Asparagus: Roll the asparagus spears in the Parmesan mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake or Roast: Place the coated asparagus on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the Parmesan crust is golden and crispy.
- Serve: Serve the asparagus with Parmesan crust immediately, garnished with more Parmesan if desired.
Time Needed to Prepare Asparagus with Parmesan Crust:
The time required to prepare this dish can vary, but on average, it takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. This includes the time for washing and prepping the asparagus, coating it with the Parmesan mixture, and baking or roasting. It’s a relatively quick and easy dish to make, making it a fantastic side dish for any occasion. 🍽️
Enjoy your delicious asparagus with Parmesan crust! 🌟👨🍳🧡
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Asparagus with Parmesan Crust:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 120-150 calories per serving, but this can vary based on serving size and the amount of Parmesan and olive oil used.
- Protein: About 6-8 grams of protein.
- Carbohydrates: Around 10-15 grams of carbohydrates.
- Fiber: About 3-4 grams of dietary fiber.
- Fat: Approximately 7-10 grams of fat, primarily from the Parmesan cheese and any added olive oil.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is an excellent source of vitamins like vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C. It also provides essential minerals like folate and potassium.
- Calcium: Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health.
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: Asparagus with Parmesan Crust is a relatively low-calorie dish, making it a suitable choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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High in Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness.
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Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health, and vitamin A and C, which support overall health.
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Protein: The dish provides a moderate amount of protein, which is important for muscle maintenance and growth.
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Calcium: Parmesan cheese is a source of calcium, promoting healthy bones and teeth.
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Low in Saturated Fat: While there’s some fat from the Parmesan cheese and olive oil, this dish is relatively low in saturated fat, which can be beneficial for heart health.
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Antioxidants: Asparagus contains antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage and support overall health.
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Low Glycemic Index: Asparagus has a low glycemic index, which means it has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels.
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Folate: Asparagus is a good source of folate, a B-vitamin that’s important for cell division and the formation of DNA.
It’s worth noting that the overall nutritional content of the dish can vary depending on factors like portion size, the amount of Parmesan cheese and olive oil used, and any additional seasonings or ingredients. Nevertheless, asparagus is a nutritious and healthy vegetable, and the Parmesan crust adds a delightful twist to this dish. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet! 🥦🧀🍽️
