| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 165 | 11g | 4g | 9g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 4g | 8g | 0.75g |
I can’t begin to express my affection for this delightful dish — our Roasted Asparagus Beans with Parmesan. From my beloved grandmother’s kitchen in Ireland to the coastal harbors of New England, the heart of cooking has always been about love, family and wholesome ingredients—elements that this recipe wonderfully embodies.
Although it’s far from the Irish stews and New England clam chowders often served on our family dinner table, the Roasted Asparagus Beans with Parmesan holds its ground as a nutritious side with a flavor profile that’s far from simple.
Wholesome Goodness
This dish hits the sweet spot for health-conscious food lovers without sacrificing taste. Packed with vital nutrients from fresh asparagus beans, it’s an excellent source of vitamins and dietary fiber. Plus, the robust flavors imparted by the garlic and squeezed lemons transform this into more than just your average veggie dish. Instead, it’s a symphony of bold, savory, and tangy elements, rounded off by the slightly nutty flavor of the parmesan cheese.
Pairing Possibilities
Its versatility is another aspect I absolutely love about this dish. The recipe pairs delightfully with grilled meats or seafood, making it the perfect accompaniment for those summer barbeques or a sophisticated garnish to a pan-seared steak. It’s reminiscent of Italian cuisine, particularly dishes Florentine. And yet, its simplicity and comfort remind me of the homey dishes from my grandmother.
The next time you’re planning a family meal or a friends gathering, why not make things a touch more gourmet? Impress them with this Roasted Asparagus Beans with Parmesan. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook like myself or just beginning your culinary journey, you’ll find this recipe to be an exciting foray into the fusion of wholesome ingredients and delightful flavor.
Naturally, as I cook these ‘asparagus beans’ in my kitchen here in Boston, I picture my son carrying on this love for food. Maybe he’ll serve this dish to his friends someday, continuing the tradition of family, love, and fantastic fare.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs fresh asparagus beans
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 lemons, zested and juiced
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is preheating, prepare your asparagus beans by washing them thoroughly under running water and patting them dry. Trim off any tough ends.
Step Two
Arrange the asparagus beans in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus, ensuring that each bean is lightly coated. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt and pepper.
Step Three
Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the beans are tender and slightly crispy. Halfway through the cooking time, shake the pan to ensure that the beans are roasting evenly.
Step Four
While the asparagus is roasting, zest and juice your lemons. Set the lemon juice and zest aside for later.
Step Five
Once the asparagus beans are done roasting, remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese. The heat from the beans will melt the cheese slightly, creating a delicious crust.
Step Six
Sprinkle the lemon zest over the beans and drizzle with the lemon juice. Toss the beans lightly to combine all ingredients together. Add additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step Seven
Serve the Roasted Asparagus Beans with Parmesan immediately while it’s still warm. Enjoy this delicious veggie side dish with your favorite main course.
