Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh chopped basil, for garnish
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Others
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided (1 tbsp for asparagus, 1 tbsp for tomatoes)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Bottled balsamic glaze, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it lightly with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Vegetables: Lay the trimmed asparagus in a single row on one side of the baking sheet. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes in a row on the opposite side of the sheet.
- Season and Drizzle: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the asparagus, then sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Repeat the same process for the cherry tomatoes with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and seasoning.
- Initial Roasting: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and begin to develop flavor.
- Add Mozzarella: After 10 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the roasted asparagus, then return the sheet to the oven.
- Finish Roasting: Continue to roast for an additional 5 minutes or until the mozzarella has melted and is lightly golden and bubbly.
- Plate and Garnish: Remove from the oven and transfer the roasted asparagus onto a serving plate. Top with the roasted cherry tomatoes and sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the dish.
- Final Touch: Drizzle bottled balsamic glaze over the assembled asparagus and tomatoes for a sweet and tangy finish before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh mozzarella if preferred, but shredded melts more evenly.
- For added flavor, consider a light sprinkle of garlic powder or red pepper flakes when seasoning.
- Make sure to trim the woody ends of the asparagus for the best texture.
- Balsamic glaze is sweeter and thicker than regular balsamic vinegar, so it adds a nice finishing touch without overpowering.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
