Cheesy Asparagus Bake
Tender asparagus spears are roasted with olive oil and garlic, then finished with melted mozzarella for a simple, elegant side dish that is quick to prepare and full of flavor.
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Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb 500 g asparagus woody ends trimmed
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic finely minced (approximately 4 cloves)
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1¼ cups mozzarella cheese finely shredded
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
Arrange the Asparagus:
- Place the trimmed asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Season the Asparagus:
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly. Drizzle the mixture evenly over the asparagus, ensuring all spears are well coated.
Roast:
- Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and roast for 10–15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and vibrant in color.
Add the Cheese:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the asparagus. Return the pan to the oven and broil until the cheese is melted and lightly golden, approximately 4–5 minutes.
Finish and Serve:
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
Notes
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. To maintain gluten-free integrity, ensure that the mozzarella cheese, cooking spray, and any additional seasonings used are certified gluten-free and free from cross-contamination.