Roasted asparagus with lemon and goat cheese is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of asparagus with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese and the zesty brightness of lemon. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy side dish for a special occasion. The combination of ingredients not only creates a harmonious blend of flavors but also offers a nutritious addition to your meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Trim and Season the Asparagus
Trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears. Arrange the asparagus on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss the asparagus to ensure it is evenly coated.
Step 3: Roast the Asparagus
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly charred.
Step 4: Add Lemon and Goat Cheese
Remove the asparagus from the oven. Immediately zest the lemon over the asparagus, then squeeze the lemon juice on top. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the hot asparagus.
Step 5: Add Optional Add-ins
If using, sprinkle the toasted walnuts, crushed red pepper flakes, and minced garlic over the asparagus. The heat from the asparagus will slightly cook the garlic, adding an extra layer of flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the roasted asparagus to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
Tips for Perfect Roasted Asparagus:
- Choose Fresh Asparagus: Look for bright green stalks with firm tips.
- Uniform Size: Try to select asparagus stalks of similar thickness for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
Variations:
- Goat Cheese Asparagus Pasta: Toss the roasted asparagus and goat cheese with cooked pasta and a splash of pasta water for a creamy, tangy pasta dish.
- Asparagus Goat Cheese Frittata: Chop the roasted asparagus and mix it with beaten eggs, goat cheese, and herbs. Cook in a skillet until set.
- Asparagus Goat Cheese Tart: Spread puff pastry with goat cheese, top with roasted asparagus, and bake until golden and crispy.
- Asparagus Goat Cheese Salad: Mix roasted asparagus with mixed greens, walnuts, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
- Asparagus Walnuts Goat Cheese: Add toasted walnuts for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Goat Cheese Sauce for Asparagus: Blend goat cheese with a bit of cream and lemon juice for a creamy sauce to drizzle over the asparagus.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
Conclusion
Roasted asparagus with lemon and goat cheese is a versatile and delicious dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful experience. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or incorporating it into other recipes, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today and see how easy and satisfying it can be to elevate your meals with this delightful recipe.