Description
A quick and flavorful Caprese Roasted Asparagus dish combining tender roasted asparagus and juicy cherry tomatoes, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect as a healthy side or light appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh chopped basil, for garnish
- Bottled balsamic glaze, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange vegetables: Place the trimmed asparagus in a neat row on one side of the baking sheet and arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on the other side for even roasting.
- Season vegetables: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the asparagus and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Repeat this process by drizzling the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the tomatoes and seasoning them similarly.
- Roast vegetables: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the asparagus and tomatoes together for 10 minutes to develop flavor and soften the vegetables.
- Add cheese and finish roasting: After 5 minutes of roasting, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the asparagus, then return the sheet to the oven and continue roasting for about 5 more minutes until the cheese is melted and starts to turn golden brown.
- Plate and garnish: Transfer the roasted asparagus to a serving plate, top with the roasted cherry tomatoes, garnish generously with fresh chopped basil, and drizzle with bottled balsamic glaze. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture instead of shredded if preferred.
- Balsamic glaze can be substituted with a balsamic reduction made at home for a more intense flavor.
- Asparagus thickness varies; adjust roasting time slightly if stalks are very thick or thin.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or can be served as a vegetarian appetizer.
