Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious side dish or light meal? Look no further! This Garlic Parmesan Asparagus recipe is ready in under 20 minutes and is packed with flavor. It's the perfect addition to any weeknight dinner, a delightful accompaniment to grilled meats, or a satisfying vegetarian meal on its own. Get ready to elevate your asparagus game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
-
Prep the Asparagus: Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus spears. You can easily do this by bending the spear until it naturally breaks at the point where it becomes tough. Rinse the asparagus under cold water and pat dry.
-
Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
-
Cook the Asparagus: Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until tender-crisp. You want the asparagus to retain a slight bite.
-
Add Parmesan and Season: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute, allowing the cheese to melt and coat the asparagus.
-
Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this easy and delicious side dish or light meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Asparagus:
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked asparagus will be mushy and lose its vibrant green color. Aim for tender-crisp spears.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor. Jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch, but fresh is always superior.
- High-Quality Parmesan: A good quality Parmesan cheese will significantly enhance the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes depending on your taste.
Variations:
- Lemon Asparagus: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the skillet along with the Parmesan cheese for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Roasted Asparagus: For a slightly different texture, roast the asparagus in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes instead of sautéing it.
- Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This simple Garlic Parmesan Asparagus recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy homemade cooking can be. It’s a great quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option, and a fantastic addition to any meal. Enjoy!