Asparagus Asiago Spears are a delightful and elegant appetizer that combines the fresh, crisp bite of asparagus with the rich, nutty flavor of Asiago cheese. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this recipe elevates simple asparagus spears by roasting them to tender perfection and topping them with a savory Asiago cheese crust.
The result is a dish that is both visually appealing and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal starter for dinner parties or a sophisticated snack to enjoy anytime.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply add a tasty vegetable side to your meal, these Asiago-topped asparagus spears are quick to prepare and sure to please. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy yet indulgent treat.
Plus, the crispy cheese topping adds a delightful texture contrast that’s hard to resist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Asparagus Asiago Spears recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and gourmet taste. You’ll love it because:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Healthy and Flavorful: Asparagus is packed with nutrients, and the Asiago cheese adds a delicious savory punch.
- Versatile: This dish works wonderfully as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light snack.
- Elegant Presentation: The beautifully roasted spears topped with melted Asiago are sure to impress.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the cheese amount or add herbs and spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1 cup grated Asiago cheese (freshly grated for best results)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for a bright finish)
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Equipment
- Baking sheet or roasting pan
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Mixing bowl
- Grater (for Asiago cheese)
- Tongs or spatula
- Oven
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the asparagus: Rinse the asparagus spears thoroughly and trim off the woody ends (about 1-2 inches from the bottom).
- Toss the asparagus in a mixing bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure each spear is evenly coated.
- Arrange the spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out slightly to ensure even roasting.
- Sprinkle the grated Asiago cheese evenly over the asparagus spears. Be generous for a crisp, cheesy crust.
- Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender but still crisp, and the Asiago cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and, if using, sprinkle with lemon zest and chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Tips & Variations
For perfectly cooked asparagus, don’t over-roast. You want the spears to remain a bit crisp to complement the crispy Asiago topping.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you don’t have Asiago, try Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a similar salty, nutty flavor.
- Add Herbs: Experiment with fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil sprinkled on top before roasting for an herbal twist.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
- Make it Vegan: Substitute Asiago with a vegan cheese alternative and use nutritional yeast for extra cheesy flavor.
- Grill Instead of Roast: For a smoky flavor, grill the asparagus spears with the cheese topping on a grill pan or outdoor grill.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Vitamin A | 20% DV |
| Vitamin C | 12% DV |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
These Asparagus Asiago Spears shine as a standalone appetizer or as a side dish. Here are some ideas to serve them up:
- Pair with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a light lunch.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for an elegant dinner.
- Add to a brunch spread with quiche, frittatas, or smoked salmon.
- Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or lemon aioli for extra flavor.
- Include in a vegetable platter with other roasted or fresh veggies for a party.
Conclusion
The Asparagus Asiago Spears recipe is a fantastic way to celebrate fresh asparagus while indulging in the rich, savory flavors of Asiago cheese. This easy-to-make dish combines the best of both worlds—healthy vegetables and irresistible cheesy goodness—making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a quick snack, or looking for a flavorful side, these spears will satisfy your cravings with minimal effort.
Beyond the delicious taste, this recipe offers versatility and room for creativity, allowing you to tweak it to your liking with herbs, spices, or cheese alternatives. Don’t forget to check out other delightful recipes to complement your meal, such as Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping.
Enjoy the wonderful flavors and happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Asparagus Asiago Spears
Description: Tender asparagus spears are wrapped in Asiago cheese and baked to golden perfection. This savory appetizer is perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
- 4 oz Asiago cheese, shredded
- 4 slices prosciutto or thinly sliced ham
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Divide asparagus into four bundles.
- Sprinkle shredded Asiago cheese evenly over each bundle.
- Wrap each bundle tightly with a slice of prosciutto.
- Place bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until asparagus is tender and prosciutto is crispy.
- Sprinkle lemon zest over the spears before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 12g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 5g
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