Description
This Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes recipe combines tender asparagus spears and juicy cherry tomatoes, enhanced with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a rich balsamic reduction. Perfect as a flavorful and healthy side dish, it’s quick to prepare and bakes to tender perfection in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 pound asparagus
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
Cheese and Seasoning
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400℉ (200℃) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus and arrange the spears in the baking dish. Place the halved cherry tomatoes on the opposite end. Season both the asparagus and tomatoes generously with salt and pepper.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the asparagus and tomatoes for a savory touch that will melt and brown during roasting.
- Roast Vegetables: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast the vegetables for about 15 minutes, or until the asparagus softens and begins to brown slightly.
- Make Balsamic Reduction: While the vegetables roast, pour the ½ cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes. Cook until the vinegar reduces and thickens into a syrupy consistency.
- Drizzle and Serve: Once the asparagus and tomatoes are roasted to perfection, remove from the oven and drizzle the balsamic reduction over them. Serve warm as a delightful side dish.
Notes
- Snapping the asparagus ends naturally removes the tough, woody portion, ensuring tenderness.
- Balsamic reduction should be watched carefully as it can quickly go from syrupy to burnt; reduce heat if needed.
- For added flavor, consider topping with fresh herbs like basil or thyme before serving.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated or served cold in salads.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American