Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe

This roasted asparagus recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a stunning and delicious side dish. The asparagus is roasted to tender-crisp perfection, and then tossed with a combination of Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and freshly ground black pepper. The result is a dish that is both elegant and satisfying.
Roasting asparagus is a great way to bring out its natural sweetness. The high heat caramelizes the sugars in the asparagus, resulting in a deep, rich flavor. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a touch of salty richness, while the lemon zest brightens up the flavor profile. This dish is a great accompaniment to any main course, or it can be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy snack.

Ingredients

• 1 pound asparagus spears, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon, zested

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Roast for 10-12 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and lemon zest. Serve immediately.
4. Tips:
5. For thicker asparagus spears, roast for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute another hard Italian cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
7. For a bit of extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the roasting asparagus.
8. Leftover roasted asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.