I just made this roasted asparagus dish, and let me tell you, it was a total game-changer for my weeknight dinners! The combo of zesty lemon, creamy feta, and crunchy pine nuts makes it feel like a fancy affair without all the hassle.
I adore creating uncomplicated but delectable meals, and my asparagus with feta cheese exemplifies this perfectly. Fresh asparagus, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice, is a light, luscious flavor.
The crumbled feta adds a creamy, tangy counterpoint, nuanced by just the right amount of salt and pepper. Optional toasted pine nuts and parsley take this nutritious side dish to another level, making it a well-rounded delight.
Asparagus With Feta Cheese Recipe Ingredients
- Fresh Asparagus: Rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, E, and K.
Boosts digestion and immunity.
- Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat.
Rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants.
- Lemon Juice: Adds freshness and tang.
High in vitamin C, enhances flavors.
- Feta Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
Adds creamy, tangy taste.
- Pine Nuts: Source of healthy fats and protein.
Adds crunchy texture.
Asparagus With Feta Cheese Recipe Ingredient Quantities
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How to Make this Asparagus With Feta Cheese Recipe
1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to warm up.
2. Rinse and cut the tough ends from the asparagus.
3. Lay the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Pour olive oil over the asparagus and toss to coat evenly.
5. Season the asparagus with salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.
6. Place the asparagus in the oven and roast for 12-15 minutes. Check to see if they are done by using the look test; they should be tender and slightly golden. If they’re not, return them to the oven for a couple more minutes.
7. As the asparagus roasts, if you are using pine nuts, toast them in a small skillet over medium heat until they’re golden brown.
8. After cooking the asparagus, move it to a platter for serving.
9. Squeeze the lemon over the asparagus roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
10. Finish with feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, and parsley, if using. Serve warm.
Asparagus With Feta Cheese Recipe Equipment Needed
1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Small skillet
7. Lemon zester (or grater)
8. Tongs or a spatula
9. Platter or serving dish
FAQ
- Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?Indeed, frozen asparagus can be used. Just make sure to let them thaw and then pat them dry before any application.
- What can I substitute for feta cheese?Goat cheese or ricotta can be used instead for a similar texture and flavor, with a creamy consistency.
- Is there a way to make this dish vegan?To create a vegan version, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and leave out any sort of cheese.
- How should I toast pine nuts?In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts, stirring very often. The nuts will take only a few minutes to turn golden brown, so stay close and keep an eye on them. During this time, the natural oils in the nuts will be released and they will become quite fragrant. It is now that you should be able to fully appreciate what a magnificent ingredient toasted pine nuts truly are.
- How long does it take to cook the asparagus?Either roast or sauté the asparagus for about 8 to 10 minutes, until it reaches a tender-crisp texture.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?Certainly, the dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. However, it is advisable to add the feta cheese just before you serve it to ensure it has the right consistency.
- What other herbs can I use besides parsley?Instead of parsley, you can use basil or dill, both of which are packed with flavor.
Asparagus With Feta Cheese Recipe Substitutions and Variations
Avocado oil or melted butter make good substitutes for olive oil, with the added bonus of each providing a different flavor to the dish.
Juice of lemon: Substitute with juice of lime or white wine vinegar for a hit of acidity.
Substitute lime zest for lemon zest, and enjoy a sweeter experience!
Feta cheese: Substitute goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture.
Pine nuts: Replace with chopped almonds or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
Pro Tips
1. Even Coating: To ensure the asparagus roasts evenly, consider tossing the asparagus with the olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon zest in a large mixing bowl before arranging them on the baking sheet. This helps to coat each piece thoroughly.
2. Avoid Overcrowding: When placing the asparagus on the baking sheet, ensure they are in a single layer without overlapping. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, and you won’t get the desired slightly crispy texture.
3. Optimal Lemon Flavor: For a more pronounced lemon flavor, add half of the lemon zest before roasting and reserve the other half to sprinkle on the asparagus after it comes out of the oven, along with the lemon juice.
4. Feta and Herbs: Add the crumbled feta cheese and herbs like parsley just before serving to preserve their freshness and provide a contrast in texture and flavor with the hot asparagus.
5. Toasting Pine Nuts: Keep a close eye on the pine nuts while toasting, as they can burn quickly. Stir them frequently until they reach a fragrant, golden brown color to enhance their nutty flavor.
Asparagus With Feta Cheese Recipe
My favorite Asparagus With Feta Cheese Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Small skillet
7. Lemon zester (or grater)
8. Tongs or a spatula
9. Platter or serving dish
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to warm up.
2. Rinse and cut the tough ends from the asparagus.
3. Lay the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Pour olive oil over the asparagus and toss to coat evenly.
5. Season the asparagus with salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.
6. Place the asparagus in the oven and roast for 12-15 minutes. Check to see if they are done by using the look test; they should be tender and slightly golden. If they’re not, return them to the oven for a couple more minutes.
7. As the asparagus roasts, if you are using pine nuts, toast them in a small skillet over medium heat until they’re golden brown.
8. After cooking the asparagus, move it to a platter for serving.
9. Squeeze the lemon over the asparagus roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
10. Finish with feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, and parsley, if using. Serve warm.
