Caprese Roasted Asparagus: A Simple & Delicious Spring Side Dish
Spring is in the air, and with it comes the abundance of fresh asparagus! While there are countless ways to enjoy this vibrant green vegetable, few are as simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor as Caprese Roasted Asparagus. This recipe combines the classic Caprese salad elements – juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil – with perfectly roasted asparagus for a side dish that’s both healthy and incredibly delicious. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Simple and Quick:** This recipe requires minimal prep time and cooks in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* **Flavorful:** The combination of roasted asparagus, sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil is a flavor explosion in your mouth.
* **Healthy:** Asparagus is packed with vitamins and nutrients, and this recipe uses fresh, wholesome ingredients.
* **Versatile:** This side dish pairs well with a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken and fish to pasta and steak.
* **Visually Appealing:** The vibrant colors of the asparagus, tomatoes, and mozzarella make this dish a beautiful addition to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients:
* **1 pound fresh asparagus,** trimmed
* **1 pint cherry tomatoes,** halved
* **8 ounces fresh mozzarella,** sliced or small mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
* **1/4 cup fresh basil leaves,** chopped
* **2 tablespoons olive oil**
* **1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)**
* **1 clove garlic,** minced (optional)
* **Salt and freshly ground black pepper,** to taste
* **Red pepper flakes,** to taste (optional)
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:
* **Asparagus:** Look for asparagus spears that are firm and bright green. Avoid spears that are wilted or have a dull color. To trim asparagus, simply snap off the tough ends where they naturally break. Alternatively, you can use a knife to cut off the bottom inch or two of the spears.
* **Cherry Tomatoes:** Grape tomatoes or Roma tomatoes can also be used, but cherry tomatoes tend to be sweeter and more flavorful. If using larger tomatoes, dice them into bite-sized pieces.
* **Mozzarella:** Fresh mozzarella is key to the authentic Caprese flavor. You can use sliced fresh mozzarella, small mozzarella balls (bocconcini), or even ciliegine (mini mozzarella balls). Make sure it is not the pre-shredded kind.
* **Basil:** Fresh basil is essential for the classic Caprese flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but the flavor won’t be as intense. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every 1/4 cup of fresh basil.
* **Olive Oil:** Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It will be drizzle and roast at a decent temperature.
* **Balsamic Glaze:** Balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dish. It’s optional, but it enhances the overall flavor. You can find balsamic glaze at most grocery stores, or you can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens.
* **Garlic:** A touch of minced garlic adds a subtle savory note. If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can omit it.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, if desired.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Baking sheet**
* **Parchment paper or aluminum foil (optional, for easier cleanup)**
* **Large bowl**
* **Cutting board**
* **Knife**
* **Garlic press (if using garlic)**
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make Caprese Roasted Asparagus:
**Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Adjust the rack to the middle position.
2. Wash the asparagus thoroughly and trim off the tough ends. You can snap them off where they naturally break or use a knife to cut off the bottom inch or two.
3. Place the trimmed asparagus in a large bowl.
**Step 2: Season the Asparagus**
1. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil. If using, add the minced garlic to the bowl.
2. Sprinkle with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Toss the asparagus until it’s evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
**Step 3: Roast the Asparagus**
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup (optional).
2. Spread the seasoned asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and slightly browned. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the asparagus spears. Check the asparagus after 8 minutes and add more time if needed. It should be easily pierced with a fork but still have a bit of bite.
**Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Mozzarella**
1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven.
2. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes evenly over the roasted asparagus.
3. Arrange the mozzarella slices or mozzarella balls among the asparagus and tomatoes.
**Step 5: Broil (Optional)**
1. If desired, broil the asparagus for 1-2 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and slightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning!
2. If you prefer not to broil, the heat from the roasted asparagus and tomatoes will still soften the mozzarella.
**Step 6: Garnish and Serve**
1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven (or broiler).
2. Sprinkle the Caprese Roasted Asparagus with fresh chopped basil.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (optional).
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Roasted Asparagus
* **Don’t overcook the asparagus:** Overcooked asparagus will be mushy and unappetizing. Aim for tender-crisp perfection.
* **Use high heat:** Roasting at a high temperature ensures that the asparagus cooks quickly and evenly. 400°F (200°C) is ideal.
* **Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet:** Overcrowding the baking sheet will cause the asparagus to steam instead of roast. Make sure the asparagus spears are arranged in a single layer.
* **Season generously:** Don’t be afraid to season the asparagus generously with salt, pepper, and other spices. This will bring out the natural flavors of the vegetable.
* **Adjust cooking time based on asparagus thickness:** Thicker asparagus spears will require a longer cooking time than thinner spears. Check the asparagus after 8 minutes and add more time if needed.
* **Broil carefully:** If you choose to broil the asparagus, watch it closely to prevent burning. The mozzarella should melt and become slightly browned, but it shouldn’t be charred.
Serving Suggestions
Caprese Roasted Asparagus is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions:
* **Grilled Chicken or Fish:** The fresh flavors of the Caprese salad complement grilled chicken or fish perfectly.
* **Pasta:** Serve Caprese Roasted Asparagus alongside your favorite pasta dish, such as spaghetti with pesto or linguine with shrimp.
* **Steak:** This side dish adds a touch of elegance to a steak dinner.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Create a colorful and flavorful roasted vegetable platter with Caprese Roasted Asparagus.
* **Bruschetta Topping:** Chop the roasted asparagus, tomatoes, and mozzarella and use it as a topping for bruschetta.
* **Salad:** Add the roasted asparagus to a mixed green salad for a boost of flavor and nutrients.
Variations and Additions
* **Add Prosciutto:** Top the roasted asparagus with crispy prosciutto for a salty and savory twist.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary, to change the flavor profile.
* **Add a Balsamic Reduction:** For a richer flavor, simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens into a reduction. Drizzle the reduction over the roasted asparagus before serving.
* **Add Pine Nuts:** Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet until golden brown and sprinkle them over the roasted asparagus for added texture and flavor.
* **Use Burrata:** Replace the fresh mozzarella with burrata for an even creamier and more decadent experience. Break the burrata open just before serving.
* **Spicy Caprese Asparagus:** Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
* **Lemon Zest:** A little lemon zest adds a brightness that complements the other flavors.
Make-Ahead Tips
While Caprese Roasted Asparagus is best served fresh, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time to save time later:
* **Trim the Asparagus:** Trim the asparagus and store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator up to 2 days in advance.
* **Chop the Basil:** Chop the basil and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent the basil from browning, wrap it in a damp paper towel.
* **Prepare the Tomatoes:** Halve the cherry tomatoes and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
However, it is recommended to roast the asparagus and assemble the dish just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Storage Instructions
Leftover Caprese Roasted Asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the texture of the asparagus and mozzarella may change slightly. It’s best reheated gently in the oven or microwave, or eaten cold.
Recipe Card: Caprese Roasted Asparagus
**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10-15 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
* 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
* 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced or small mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
* 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
* 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
* Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place rack in the middle position.
2. Wash and trim asparagus. Place in a large bowl.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, add minced garlic (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat.
4. Spread asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (optional).
5. Roast for 8-12 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
6. Remove from oven and scatter cherry tomatoes and mozzarella over the asparagus.
7. Broil for 1-2 minutes, or until mozzarella is melted and slightly browned (optional). Watch carefully!
8. Remove from oven (or broiler) and sprinkle with fresh basil.
9. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (optional). Serve immediately.
**Nutrition Information (approximate, per serving):**
* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 15-20g
* Protein: 15-20g
* Carbohydrates: 10-15g
Enjoy this delightful Caprese Roasted Asparagus recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of spring.