Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes

Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Canada

Region / culture: Canada | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Roasted asparagus and tomatoes is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish for dinner. The combination of the sweet tomatoes and the earthy asparagus creates a flavorful and colorful dish that is sure to impress your guests.

History

Roasted asparagus and tomatoes is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Asparagus has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and was prized by the ancient Greeks and Romans for its unique flavor and health benefits. Tomatoes, on the other hand, are a relatively recent addition to the culinary world, as they were not introduced to Europe until the 16th century. The combination of these two ingredients creates a dish that is both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp dried thyme leaves
1 minced garlic clove
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.25 tsp brown sugar
2 cups grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
2 bunches asparagus

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C).
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, garlic, salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
Cut the tomatoes in half and toss them in the olive oil mixture.
Spread the tomatoes evenly in a roasting pan and place it in the preheated oven.
Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are shriveled.
Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus at their natural breaking point.
Add the tender asparagus spears to the roasted tomatoes and continue cooking for 25 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, or by adding some cooked quinoa or couscous for a heartier dish. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary or oregano, to create a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When roasting asparagus and tomatoes, it is important to make sure that the vegetables are evenly coated in the olive oil mixture to ensure that they cook evenly. Additionally, be sure to stir the tomatoes occasionally while they are roasting to prevent them from burning. Finally, be sure to snap off the tough ends of the asparagus at their natural breaking point to ensure that they are tender and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted asparagus and tomatoes can be served as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish, or as a light lunch on its own. You can also add some crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, to add some extra flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the asparagus and tomatoes in the oven helps to bring out their natural flavors and creates a delicious caramelized crust on the vegetables. Be sure to spread the vegetables evenly in the roasting pan to ensure that they cook evenly and are tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have balsamic vinegar on hand, you can substitute red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar flavor. You can also use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic, or honey instead of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the olive oil mixture and cut the tomatoes in advance to save time when making this dish. Simply store the olive oil mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator and toss the tomatoes in it when you are ready to roast them.

Presentation Ideas

Roasted asparagus and tomatoes can be served on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant presentation. You can also serve this dish in individual ramekins for a more formal presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Roasted asparagus and tomatoes pair well with a variety of proteins, such as grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu. You can also serve this dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Roasted asparagus and tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the vegetables in a baking dish and heat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of roasted asparagus and tomatoes contains approximately 150 calories. This makes it a light and healthy dish that is perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of roasted asparagus and tomatoes contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for overall health.

Fats

Each serving of roasted asparagus and tomatoes contains approximately 7 grams of fat. The fat in this dish comes primarily from the olive oil, which is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats that can help to reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

Proteins

Each serving of roasted asparagus and tomatoes contains approximately 3 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and is an important part of a healthy diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Roasted asparagus and tomatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for overall health and can help to boost the immune system and support healthy bones.

Alergens

Roasted asparagus and tomatoes are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making them a great option for those with food allergies or sensitivities. However, if you have a sensitivity to nightshade vegetables, such as tomatoes, you may want to avoid this dish.

Summary

Overall, roasted asparagus and tomatoes are a healthy and delicious dish that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This dish is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Summary

Roasted asparagus and tomatoes is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish for dinner. This dish is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and colorful dish that is sure to impress your guests.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning the ins and outs of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, and I was always eager to learn from her.

One summer day, as we were preparing dinner together, my grandmother pulled out a bunch of fresh asparagus and a basket of ripe tomatoes from her garden. She told me that we were going to make a delicious dish called Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes. I had never heard of such a combination before, and my curiosity was piqued.

As we washed and trimmed the asparagus, my grandmother began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that she had learned it from a dear friend many years ago, who had picked it up during her travels in Italy. The simplicity of the ingredients and the bold flavors they produced had captivated her friend, and now they were about to captivate me as well.

We tossed the asparagus and tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As we placed the tray of vegetables in the oven to roast, my grandmother shared more of her cooking wisdom with me. She explained how roasting the asparagus and tomatoes would bring out their natural sweetness and enhance their flavors. She also emphasized the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a dish that was truly exceptional.

When the vegetables emerged from the oven, perfectly caramelized and bursting with flavor, I knew that I had discovered a new favorite recipe. The combination of the tender asparagus and the juicy tomatoes was a match made in culinary heaven. I eagerly dug in, savoring each bite and marveling at the simplicity and perfection of the dish.

Over the years, I have made Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes countless times, each time evoking memories of that summer day in my grandmother's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of delicious, homemade food that my grandmother instilled in me.

As I continue to cook and experiment in the kitchen, I am grateful for the lessons and recipes that have been passed down to me through generations. Each dish tells a story, a tale of tradition and love that transcends time and connects us to our past.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, with fresh asparagus and ripe tomatoes at hand, I urge you to give this recipe a try. Let the flavors mingle and the aromas transport you to a place of wonder and delight. And remember, cooking is not just about nourishing the body, but also about feeding the soul. Bon appétit!