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Turn the humble asparagus into a star side dish with this simple yet elegant preparation—Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan. The vibrant green asparagus spears, roasted to perfection, are elevated with a hint of zesty lemon and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This side dish not only adds a burst of flavor to your meal but also brings a touch of sophistication to the table. With minimal effort and maximum impact, this roasted asparagus recipe is a delightful addition to any menu.

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Ingredients:

• 1 bunch asparagus spears, tough ends trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus spears and trim the tough ends. If desired, peel the lower part of the asparagus for a more tender texture.
3. Toss with Olive Oil and Seasoning: Place the trimmed asparagus on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss the asparagus spears to ensure they are evenly coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Roast in the Oven: Spread the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 10-15 minutes or until the asparagus is tender but still crisp.
5. Zest and Drizzle with Lemon: While the asparagus is roasting, zest one lemon and set aside. Once the asparagus is done, drizzle lemon juice over the roasted spears and sprinkle with lemon zest for a burst of citrus flavor.
6. Add Parmesan Cheese: Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the roasted asparagus. The residual heat will melt the cheese slightly, creating a savory and gooey topping.
7. Serve Warm: Transfer the roasted asparagus to a serving platter. If desired, garnish with additional lemon wedges. Serve immediately while the asparagus is warm and the cheese is melty.

Variations and Tips:

• Garlic Infusion: Add minced garlic to the olive oil before tossing the asparagus for a garlic-infused flavor.
• Pine Nuts or Almonds: Enhance the texture by adding toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for a delightful crunch.
• Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted asparagus just before serving for a sweet and tangy finish.
• Herb Medley: Experiment with a medley of fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or chives to add an aromatic dimension.
• Grilled Asparagus Variation: Take the recipe outdoors by grilling the asparagus on a barbecue for a smoky flavor.

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. The natural sweetness of asparagus, enhanced by the zesty lemon and savory Parmesan, creates a side dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing. Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings, this dish showcases the elegance that can be achieved with minimal ingredients. Elevate your meals with the freshness of roasted asparagus, and delight in the symphony of flavors that this simple yet sophisticated side dish brings to your table.