Asparagus with ham

Delicious Oven-Roasted Asparagus with Olive Oil

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Oven-roasted asparagus is an excellent choice for an elegant and healthy side dish, perfect for spring meals. This simple yet refined dish is sure to impress your guests, and its delicate flavors will pair wonderfully with any main course. Let's get started!

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh asparagus
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon juice, grated parmesan cheese, or chili flakes for an extra kick of flavor

Instructions:

1. Selecting and preparing the asparagus: Choose fresh asparagus with firm stalks and tight tips. This is an essential ingredient for a tasty side dish. When you get home, trim the woody ends of the stalks by cutting about 2 cm from the base of each spear. Then, using a peeler, gently peel the skin from the first 6-7 cm of the stalk. This step will help achieve a finer texture and a more enjoyable eating experience.

2. Preheating the oven: While you prepare the asparagus, preheat the oven to 200°C. This temperature will allow the asparagus to cook evenly while retaining its crunchy texture and vibrant color.

3. Greasing the baking tray: Choose a baking tray large enough to lay the asparagus in a single layer so it cooks evenly. Grease the tray with a little extra virgin olive oil, making sure every corner is covered. The oil will help with the natural caramelization of the asparagus, bringing out a delicious flavor.

4. Seasoning the asparagus: Place the asparagus in the prepared tray and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, but don't overdo it, as asparagus has a delicate flavor that you want to preserve. If you prefer a bolder taste, add the juice of half a lemon for a pleasant contrast.

5. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the asparagus for 15 minutes. Check it halfway through, gently turning it with a spatula to ensure even cooking. The asparagus is done when it becomes slightly soft to the touch but remains crunchy.

6. Serving: Add a touch of elegance to your dish by sprinkling grated parmesan cheese on top immediately after removing it from the oven. It will melt slightly, adding a savory flavor. Alternatively, add chili flakes for a bit of spice.

7. Variation suggestion: You can experiment with different flavors by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a few crushed garlic cloves for an extra taste boost. These variations can transform a simple oven-roasted asparagus into a true culinary feast.

This oven-roasted asparagus with olive oil is not only a simple recipe but also a quick summer delight that will bring a touch of freshness to every meal. Enjoy it as a side dish with fish, chicken, or even as a light appetizer!

 Ingredients: 500 g asparagus, 300 g raw-dried ham, thinly sliced, a little olive oil, red pepper, optional sauce made from mayonnaise, low-fat sour cream, a little spicy ketchup, lemon juice.