Description
Succulent caprese roasted asparagus elevates simple ingredients into a Mediterranean-inspired side dish that sings with fresh flavors. Italian herbs and melted mozzarella create a harmonious blend you’ll crave at every meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (454 grams) asparagus, trimmed
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasoning and Oil:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for drizzling
- Kosher salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh chopped basil
- Bottled balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Position the oven rack in the center and heat to 400°F, creating an optimal roasting environment. Prepare a baking sheet with aluminum foil and a light application of non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Distribute asparagus spears and cherry tomatoes across the baking sheet, ensuring even spacing. Generously coat both vegetables with olive oil, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for approximately 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin caramelizing and developing intense flavors.
- Carefully remove the baking sheet and evenly sprinkle fresh mozzarella over the asparagus, ensuring complete coverage. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts and turns a light golden brown.
- Once removed from the oven, delicately transfer the roasted asparagus to a serving platter, arranging the melted cheese-topped spears with precision.
- Artfully scatter the roasted cherry tomatoes around the asparagus, creating an appetizing presentation.
- Finish the dish by scattering torn fresh basil leaves across the top and drizzling a rich balsamic glaze in an elegant zigzag pattern, adding a final layer of complexity to the flavor profile.
Notes
- Opt for thin asparagus spears to ensure even roasting and a tender texture without becoming woody or tough.
- Select ripe, vibrant cherry tomatoes for maximum flavor burst and natural sweetness during roasting.
- Experiment with different cheese variations like fresh parmesan or goat cheese for unique flavor profiles that complement the asparagus.
- Adjust roasting time based on asparagus thickness to prevent overcooking, checking tenderness with a fork after 8-10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg