Roasted Asparagus with Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon and Parmesan

The first asparagus of the season is always hard to resist. Those bright green stalks are one of the clearest signs that spring cooking has arrived, bringing fresh flavor along with fiber, antioxidants and essential vitamins.

Roasting is one of the best ways to cook asparagus. High heat concentrates its flavor, creating lightly caramelized edges while keeping the stalks tender. Look for firm asparagus with tightly closed tips and vibrant color, and cook it within a day or two of bringing it home. Simply snap off the woody ends. One stalk will naturally break at the right point, making it easy to trim the rest of the bunch to match. Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a sheet pan so it roasts rather than steams. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness, while lemon zest and juice bring brightness. Toasted slivered almonds add crunch, and freshly grated parmesan cheese melts slightly over the warm vegetables, finishing the dish. The result is a fresh, vibrant spring side dish that lets asparagus shine.

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Course: Side Dish

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup slivered almonds
• 2 bunches fresh asparagus trimmed
• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes halved or quartered depending on the size
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Kosher or sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese optional

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the slivered almonds in a single layer on a sheet pan and toast until lightly golden and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the tray from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees F.
• Place the asparagus and tomatoes on a sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon zest and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat and spread into an even layer. Roast for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the tomatoes have softened. Top with the toasted almonds and grated parmesan cheese. Adjust the seasoning as needed, gently toss and serve.

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