Description
This Caprese Roasted Asparagus recipe brings together tender roasted asparagus, juicy cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese, topped with fresh basil and balsamic glaze for a delicious, easy-to-make side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for drizzling (divided)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Garnishes
- Fresh chopped basil, for garnish
- Bottled balsamic glaze, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange vegetables: Place the trimmed asparagus in a row on one side of the baking sheet and the halved cherry tomatoes on the other side, keeping them separated.
- Season and oil: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the asparagus and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Repeat this process by drizzling the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the tomatoes and seasoning them similarly.
- Roast vegetables: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the vegetables for 10 minutes allowing them to soften and start caramelizing.
- Add cheese and continue roasting: After 5 minutes of roasting, remove the baking sheet from the oven, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the asparagus, then return it to the oven for the remaining 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer the roasted asparagus to a serving plate, top with the roasted cherry tomatoes, sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the dish, and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
- Trim asparagus by snapping off the woody ends for the best texture.
- Balsamic glaze adds a sweet tangy finish; you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar or purchase bottled glaze.
- Use fresh mozzarella if preferred, but shredded melts more evenly in this recipe.
- For a spicier version, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the vegetables before roasting.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the cheese warm and melty.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
