Sautéed Veggie Appetizer: Asparagus with Balsamic Glaze

This Balsamic Roasted Asparagus recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural flavors of fresh asparagus, enhanced with a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, this recipe combines roasted vegetables with a sweet-tart glaze and optional breadcrumbs for added texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Ready in just 25-35 minutes, with minimal prep.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and heart-healthy fats.
• Customizable: Easily substitute or adapt ingredients for dietary preferences.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavor: Sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 bunch of asparagus
• ½ tablespoon olive or avocado oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar (119 ml)
• 1-2 teaspoons plain or Italian breadcrumbs (optional, gluten-free if needed)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Balsamic Glaze

1. Pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar reduces to about 2-3 tablespoons of glaze (approximately 15 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Asparagus

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Trim 2-3 inches from the ends of the asparagus to remove the tough parts. Keep the rubber bands on for easier trimming.
3. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on a parchment-lined or non-stick baking sheet.

Step 3: Season the Asparagus

1. Drizzle olive or avocado oil over the asparagus, rolling them to coat evenly.
2. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, adjusting the seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Roast the Asparagus

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
2. Roast for 6-7 minutes for thinner spears or 8-9 minutes for medium to large spears.
3. Look for vibrant, bright green spears with a tender yet slightly crunchy texture. Avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Remove the asparagus from the baking sheet immediately after roasting to prevent further cooking. Transfer to a serving dish.
2. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the asparagus. If the glaze has thickened too much, gently reheat it to loosen.
3. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs, if desired, for added crunch and flavor.
4. Serve immediately while warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Substitutions: Replace asparagus with green beans or broccoli spears, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
• Oil Options: Use grapeseed or melted coconut oil for different flavor profiles.
• Vinegar Alternatives: Substitute balsamic vinegar with a reduction made from ¼ cup pomegranate juice and ¼ cup honey.
• Breadcrumb Swap: Use crushed nuts or nutritional yeast for a gluten-free option.
• Extra Toppings: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or toasted sesame seeds for added flair.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or briefly in the microwave. Avoid overcooking to maintain texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, thaw and pat dry before roasting to prevent excess moisture.

2. How do I know when asparagus is done roasting?

The spears should be bright green, tender, and slightly crisp. Overcooked asparagus turns olive green and becomes mushy.

3. Can I make the balsamic glaze ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

4. What if I don’t have parchment paper?

Use a non-stick baking sheet or lightly grease the sheet with oil.

5. Can I grill the asparagus instead of roasting?

Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally.

6. Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, as long as you use vegan-friendly breadcrumbs or skip them altogether.

7. Can I add other seasonings?

Feel free to add red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or smoked paprika for additional flavor.

8. How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Stir frequently and monitor closely while reducing the balsamic vinegar.

9. What pairs well with roasted asparagus?

Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a hearty grain like quinoa.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use two baking sheets to ensure the asparagus roasts evenly.

Conclusion

This Balsamic Roasted Asparagus is a quick, elegant side dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether paired with a main course or served as part of a holiday spread, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. With its tangy glaze and perfectly roasted spears, it’s a simple way to elevate any meal!

Balsamic Roasted Asparagus

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-35 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Elevate your side dish game with this Roasted Asparagus with Balsamic Glaze. Tender, roasted asparagus spears are drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction and topped with a sprinkle of bread crumbs for a satisfying crunch. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this versatile dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 bunch asparagus
• 1/2 tablespoon olive or avocado oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (119 ml)
• 1 to 2 teaspoons plain or Italian bread crumbs (opt for gluten-free if needed)

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Balsamic Glaze

1. Pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium.
3. Simmer for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced to 2-3 tablespoons of glaze.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Asparagus

4. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Trim 2-3 inches from the tough ends of the asparagus.
6. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on a parchment-lined or non-stick baking sheet.

Step 3: Season the Asparagus

7. Drizzle olive or avocado oil over the asparagus, rolling the spears to coat evenly.
8. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Roast the Asparagus

9. Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven:
   • 6-7 minutes for thin spears.
   • 8-9 minutes for medium or large spears.
10. The asparagus should be tender but slightly crisp and vibrant green.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

11. Remove asparagus from the oven and transfer to a serving dish immediately.
12. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the warm asparagus. Reheat the glaze gently if it becomes too thick.
13. Sprinkle bread crumbs on top for added texture and serve immediately.

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Notes

• Substitute green beans or broccoli spears for asparagus; adjust cooking time as needed.
• Replace balsamic vinegar with a reduced mixture of pomegranate juice and honey for a unique glaze.
• Use crushed nuts or nutritional yeast for a gluten-free bread crumb alternative.
• Try grapeseed or melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile.