Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dinner recipe that's quick to prepare? Look no further! This simple asparagus recipe with balsamic glaze is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and is ready in under 20 minutes. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and showcases the best of fresh, seasonal asparagus. Whether you're a beginner cook or an experienced chef, you'll appreciate this healthy meal's simplicity and elegance. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for garnish
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This method allows for perfectly tender-crisp asparagus.
Prepare the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Trimming the woody ends is crucial for optimal texture.
Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing elevates the flavor of the asparagus.
Roast the Asparagus: Arrange the asparagus spears in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the asparagus, ensuring each spear is coated.
Bake to Perfection: Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and slightly browned. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately and relish this delicious, healthy dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Choose fresh asparagus: Look for spears that are firm, bright green, and have tightly closed tips.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the asparagus is in a single layer to promote even cooking.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the asparagus spears. Check for doneness frequently.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes, to customize the flavor.
Variations:
- Lemon Asparagus: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the balsamic vinaigrette for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
- Garlic Asparagus: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the vinaigrette for a garlicky kick.
- Parmesan Asparagus: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the roasted asparagus before serving for a cheesy, savory touch. This simple addition elevates this easy recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size. However, you can expect a low-calorie, high-fiber meal rich in Vitamin K and folate.
This simple asparagus recipe with balsamic vinegar is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes that don't require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, and remember to adapt it to your taste preferences!