Baked Asparagus

Baked asparagus is a simple and tasty side dish. Here’s how to prepare it with an Italian twist:

Ingredients

• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200 °C (°C).
2. Clean the asparagus by removing the woody end of the stem. You can simply bend them and allow them to naturally snap at the point where they start to soften.
3. Arrange the asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the asparagus with extra virgin olive oil and add the crushed garlic cloves. Mix well to ensure the asparagus are well-coated on all sides.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake the asparagus for about 15-20 minutes, or until they become tender but still crisp.
7. If desired, in the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle the asparagus with grated Parmesan cheese to add a richer flavor and achieve a golden crust.
8. Remove the asparagus from the oven, and if you like, add a drizzle of lemon juice for a touch of freshness.

Serve them hot as a side dish and enjoy the simple yet rich flavor of baked asparagus!

Did you know?

Asparagus is known for its delicate flavor and diuretic properties. It is a springtime food, when the best fresh quality is available. In Italy, one of the most famous variations is the asparagus from Bassano, which is often served with buttered eggs and cheese.