Introduction
Oven-Roasted Asparagus with Asiago, Bacon, and Garlic is a delightful and flavorful side dish that elevates simple asparagus into a savory treat. By roasting the asparagus at a high temperature, you achieve a perfect balance of crispness and tenderness, while the combination of Asiago cheese, crispy bacon, and aromatic garlic adds rich, complementary flavors that make this dish irresistible.
This recipe is popular because it is both easy to prepare and versatile, making it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of main courses such as grilled meats, poultry, or fish. Using fresh asparagus is essential to ensure the best texture and taste, as it roasts beautifully and absorbs the savory toppings without losing its natural crispness. Additionally, this dish is naturally gluten-free and low in carbohydrates, appealing to those seeking healthier, flavorful options.
With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, including prep, Oven-Roasted Asparagus with Asiago, Bacon, and Garlic is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its combination of smoky, cheesy, and garlicky notes makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare but impressive in taste.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate values):
- Calories: 294
- Protein: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 880mg
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb fresh asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup Asiago cheese, shredded
- 4 slices bacon, cooked, drained of fat, and chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Trim the woody ends off the asparagus by snapping or cutting about 1-2 inches from the bottom.
- Place the asparagus in a 2.5-quart casserole dish or a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus, then season with salt and black pepper. Add the minced garlic and toss everything well to coat evenly.
- Roast the asparagus uncovered in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, allowing it to begin tenderizing and to develop a slight char.
- Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle half of the shredded Asiago cheese evenly over the asparagus.
- Distribute the chopped cooked bacon over the cheese layer, then top with the remaining Asiago cheese.
- Return the asparagus to the oven and roast uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the asparagus is crisp-tender.
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately to enjoy the full flavor and texture of the dish.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Asparagus Thickness: Adjust roasting time based on the thickness of your asparagus. Thinner stalks may take less time (about 15-18 minutes total), while thicker ones may need a few extra minutes to become tender without burning.
- Cheese Substitutions: If Asiago is unavailable or you want a different flavor, try Parmesan or Gruyère cheese. Both melt well and complement the other ingredients nicely.
- Additional Herbs: For added freshness and aroma, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley before the final roasting step.
- Garlic Variations: Roasted garlic cloves can be used instead of minced garlic for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
- Bacon Alternatives: For a different texture or flavor, consider pancetta or prosciutto, cooked and chopped similarly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover roasted asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the asparagus on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes until heated through and the cheese is slightly melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the asparagus soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the asparagus and toppings in advance, but it’s best to assemble and roast just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor. If you want to prep earlier, trim and season the asparagus and store in the fridge, then add cheese and bacon before roasting.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients. It’s an excellent low-carb and gluten-free side dish option.
Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
Fresh asparagus is preferred for roasting to achieve the best texture. Frozen asparagus tends to release water and become soggy when roasted, so it’s not recommended for this dish.
How do I know when the asparagus is done?
The asparagus should be crisp-tender with a slight char on the tips. You can test by piercing a stalk with a fork; it should have some resistance but not be tough or woody.
