Caprese Roasted Asparagus

Caprese Roasted Asparagus Recipe

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Hello, food lovers! Get ready to elevate your veggie game with this Caprese Roasted Asparagus recipe. It combines the freshness of asparagus and cherry tomatoes with melted mozzarella and a balsamic glaze drizzle, bringing together all the classic Caprese flavors in a unique, warm dish. Perfect for gatherings, as a side dish, or even a light main course. Let’s dive into this vibrant, delicious recipe!

Introduction

Caprese Roasted Asparagus is a fantastic twist on the classic Caprese salad, adding the warmth and tenderness of roasted asparagus and tomatoes. This dish is colorful, nutritious, and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or impressing guests, this recipe delivers fresh flavors and a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

To make Caprese Roasted Asparagus, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, for drizzling
  • Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Fresh chopped basil, for garnish
  • Bottled balsamic glaze, for garnish

These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and visually stunning.

How to Make Caprese Roasted Asparagus

Follow these easy steps to make Caprese Roasted Asparagus:

  1. Prepare for Roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup.
  2. Arrange the Vegetables: Lay the asparagus in a single row on one side of the baking sheet. Place the cherry tomatoes in a row on the other side.
  3. Season the Vegetables: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the asparagus, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Repeat with the cherry tomatoes on the other side of the baking sheet.
  4. Roast in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 10 minutes.
  5. Add Cheese: With 5 minutes left, remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the asparagus. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
  6. Assemble and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully transfer the asparagus to a serving plate. Top with the roasted tomatoes and garnish with freshly chopped basil. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top for a finishing touch.

Helpful Tips

  • Even Roasting: Make sure the asparagus is arranged in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
  • Fresh Mozzarella: For an extra creamy texture, you can use fresh mozzarella slices instead of shredded mozzarella.
  • Balsamic Glaze: Use a high-quality balsamic glaze for the best flavor. If you don’t have any, you can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens.

Cooking Tips

Here are some additional tips to perfect your Caprese Roasted Asparagus:

  • Adjust Cooking Time: For thicker asparagus spears, you may need to add a few extra minutes of roasting time.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Use red and yellow cherry tomatoes for added color and a slightly sweeter flavor.
  • Cheese Tip: Broil the dish for the last minute of baking if you want the cheese to have a bubbly, golden-brown finish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of meals. Serve Caprese Roasted Asparagus as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or pasta. It also works beautifully as part of a brunch spread or as a light, standalone appetizer. The balsamic glaze and fresh basil bring a burst of flavor that enhances any main dish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an overview of the nutritional highlights for Caprese Roasted Asparagus:

  • Calories: 250
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Potassium: 400mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Vitamin A: 15%
  • Vitamin C: 25%
  • Calcium: 20%
  • Iron: 10%

This dish is low in carbs and packed with essential nutrients, making it both delicious and nutritious.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheat: To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. The balsamic glaze may absorb into the asparagus over time, so feel free to add an extra drizzle when serving.

Enjoy Cold: This dish can also be enjoyed cold, as the flavors of the balsamic glaze and basil intensify when chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can roast the asparagus and tomatoes ahead of time and add the cheese and basil just before serving. Reheat briefly in the oven if needed.

What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, like Parmesan or fontina, for different flavors.

Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and vibrant flavor to this dish.

If you love fresh, flavorful dishes, you might enjoy these related recipes:

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, elegant recipe for Caprese Roasted Asparagus! This colorful dish combines fresh ingredients and simple flavors to create a memorable meal addition. Try this recipe and savor every bite of the gooey cheese, roasted vegetables, and fragrant basil. Let us know how yours turns out, and enjoy!

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