Greek Roasted Asparagus with Feta Recipe

Roasted Asparagus with Feta

Greek Roasted Asparagus with Feta Recipe
Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 14 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Roasted Asparagus with Feta
Roasted Asparagus with Feta

Roasted asparagus with feta is a simple yet delicious dish that brings out the natural flavors of the asparagus while adding a creamy and tangy touch with the feta cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy side dish that pairs well with any main course.

History

Asparagus has been enjoyed for centuries, with records of its cultivation dating back to ancient Egypt. The combination of roasted asparagus with feta cheese is a modern twist on a classic dish, adding a rich and savory element to the fresh and crisp asparagus.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Put the oven rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C).
  2. Toss the asparagus with oil, salt, and pepper in a large shallow baking pan and arrange it in a single layer.
  3. Roast the asparagus, shaking the pan once about halfway through roasting, until it is just tender when pierced with a fork. This should take a total of 8 to 14 minutes.
  4. Serve the asparagus sprinkled with cheese.

Variations

  • Substitute goat cheese or blue cheese for the feta for a different flavor profile.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
  • Top the roasted asparagus with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to trim the tough ends of the asparagus before roasting to ensure a tender and flavorful result.

- Roast the asparagus at a high temperature to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior.

- Crumble the feta cheese just before serving to preserve its creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the roasted asparagus with feta as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a hearty pasta dish. It also makes a great addition to a brunch spread or a light lunch.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the asparagus at a high temperature helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the vegetable, resulting in a sweet and savory flavor. Be sure to shake the pan halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have feta cheese on hand, you can substitute it with goat cheese, blue cheese, or Parmesan cheese. You can also omit the cheese altogether for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

You can trim and season the asparagus ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to roast. Crumble the feta cheese just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the roasted asparagus on a platter and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top for a rustic and elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Roasted asparagus with feta pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, and pasta. It also complements a glass of crisp white wine or a light and refreshing cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the asparagus in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of roasted asparagus with feta contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of roasted asparagus with feta contains approximately 8 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of roasted asparagus with feta contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of roasted asparagus with feta contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Asparagus is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and potassium. Feta cheese provides calcium and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (feta cheese) and is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Roasted asparagus with feta is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. It is a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal.

Summary

Roasted asparagus with feta is a simple and flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the asparagus while adding a creamy and tangy element with the feta cheese. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick and healthy side dish that pairs well with any main course. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, during a summer visit to my dear friend Martha's house in the countryside. Martha was always experimenting in the kitchen, coming up with new and exciting dishes to tempt our taste buds. On this particular day, she had decided to make roasted asparagus with feta for dinner, and I was lucky enough to be her sous chef.

I watched in awe as Martha effortlessly prepared the asparagus, snapping off the tough ends and tossing them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. She then spread the asparagus out on a baking sheet and popped it in the oven to roast. The smell that wafted from the oven was heavenly – a mix of earthy asparagus and savory feta cheese.

As Martha finished up the rest of the meal, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste of the roasted asparagus. The combination of tender asparagus with the creamy feta was a revelation. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

After our delicious dinner, I asked Martha for the recipe. She laughed and said it was a family secret, passed down from her grandmother. But she agreed to teach me how to make it, on the condition that I promised to keep it to myself.

Over the next few days, Martha guided me through the steps of making roasted asparagus with feta. I learned the importance of choosing fresh asparagus, the perfect roasting time, and the right amount of feta to sprinkle on top. It was a labor of love, but one that I relished every moment of.

Once I had mastered the recipe, I couldn't wait to share it with my own family. They were delighted by the new dish and begged me to make it again and again. And so, roasted asparagus with feta became a staple in our household, a dish that reminded us of lazy summer days and the joy of good food shared with loved ones.

As the years went by, I continued to make roasted asparagus with feta for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time, I would think back to that summer with Martha and the magic of discovering a new recipe that would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, preparing to make roasted asparagus with feta once again, I am filled with gratitude for the friends and family who have enriched my life with their love and their recipes. And as I take that first bite of tender asparagus and creamy feta, I am reminded of the simple joys that good food can bring.

Categories

| Asparagus Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Feta Recipes | Greek Recipes |

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