Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious keto side dish that's packed with flavor? Look no further! This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus recipe is the perfect accompaniment to any keto-friendly meal. It's ready in under 20 minutes, requires minimal ingredients, and is bursting with that irresistible garlicky, cheesy goodness. This healthy recipe is a great option for busy weeknights or impressive dinner parties. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, rinse the asparagus under cold water and trim the tough ends. This simple step ensures perfectly tender-crisp asparagus.
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Toss & Season: In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Make sure the asparagus spears are evenly coated. This step is crucial for even roasting and maximum flavor.
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Roast to Perfection: Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and slightly browned. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
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Serve & Enjoy: Once roasted, remove the asparagus from the oven and serve immediately. This delightful side dish is best served hot.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Asparagus Selection: Choose asparagus spears that are firm and bright green. Avoid those that are limp or have woody stems.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure the asparagus is in a single layer on the baking sheet for even roasting. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the asparagus spears and your oven. Check for doneness after 12 minutes.
- Add Some Spice: For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Variations:
- Lemon-Garlic Asparagus: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon for a bright and tangy twist.
- Bacon-Asparagus: Crumble cooked bacon over the asparagus before serving for a savory boost.
- Herb-Roasted Asparagus: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a more aromatic dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Net Carbs: Approximately 3-5g
- Fat: Approximately 6-8g
- Protein: Approximately 3-4g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size.
This simple yet elegant Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus is a fantastic addition to your keto diet. Its ease of preparation and delicious taste make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy!