Olive Garden Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
User Reviews
5
Olive Garden Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
Description
This recipe begins by reducing balsamic vinegar to a syrupy consistency through simmering. Fresh asparagus spears are trimmed, lightly oiled, salted, and roasted on a grill or oven to tender-crisp with some browning. A Parmesan cream sauce is made by simmering heavy cream with grated Parmesan until slightly thickened. The roasted asparagus is served topped with the cream sauce, a sprinkle of additional freshly grated Parmesan, and optionally a squeeze of lemon for brightness. A small amount of chopped tomato may also garnish.
The roasting method preserves the vegetable's slight crunch while concentrating sweetness. The balsamic reduction adds acidic balance, and the creamy cheese sauce provides richness, making for a well-rounded vegetable side.
This asparagus dish pairs well with grilled meats or pasta and can be prepared ahead with reheating. Roast timing varies with spear thickness to avoid overcooking.
Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred for best melting and flavor. Store-bought balsamic glaze can substitute the homemade reduction for time-saving, though flavor differs slightly. If no grill is available, oven roasting at 425°F for 10-12 minutes is a good alternative.
Ingredients
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 pound asparagus fresh
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese for the sauce, grated
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan Cheese for garnish
- 1 lemon optional
- 2 teaspoons tomato chopped
Instructions
- Prepare balsamic vinegar reduction by adding 1 cup of balsamic vinegar to a small pot. Heat on high until the mixture boils, then turn down to simmer for 20 minutes. The reduction should yield 1/2 cup of vinegar. Store in an airtight container.
- Prepare asparagus by cutting off about 1 inch of the bottom end of the asparagus, lay asparagus on a sheet pan drizzle with oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast on medium heat on a grill for about 10 minutes turning the asparagus over. Cooking time with vary with the thickness of the asparagus. Remove asparagus from grill when done. If desired squeeze 1/2 of a lemon over the asparagus. I do not think the Olive Garden does this, but I think it really helps to bring out the flavor of the asparagus.
- Prepare Parmesan sauce by adding heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese in a small pot or skillet. Simmer on low for about 10 - 12 minutes. The cream should reduce by 20% in volume.
- To serve, place some of the cooked asparaguses on a plate, drizzle balsamic vinegar on top. Garnish with 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, and then serve with the sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped tomatoes if desired.
Notes
- To avoid overcooking asparagus, aim for tender but slightly firm texture with a bit of bite.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the sauce and garnish to ensure smooth melting and rich flavor.
- Oven roasting at 425°F for 10-12 minutes is a good alternative if a grill is not available.
- Store-bought balsamic glaze can replace the homemade reduction for convenience but has a simpler flavor.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 192 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 192kcal | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 11g | 4% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 15g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Trans Fat | 0.02g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 37mg | 12% |
| Sodium | 660mg | 28% |
| Potassium | 324mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 1352IU | 27% |
| Vitamin C | 21mg | 23% |
| Calcium | 96mg | 10% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
You'll Also Love
