Asparagus never tasted so good! Tender stalks are roasted with garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a thick layer of shaved parmesan cheese, then finished with a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze. This parmesan roasted asparagus recipe is quick, elegant, and packed with bold flavors—perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy & Fast – Ready in under 20 minutes with simple, fresh ingredients.
- Packed with Flavor – The combination of roasted garlic, melty parmesan, juicy tomatoes, and tangy balsamic glaze is irresistible.
- Healthy & Elegant – A veggie-forward side dish that looks restaurant-worthy without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Asparagus – Choose medium-sized stalks (about the width of your pinky finger) for best texture.
- Parmesan Cheese – Thick, shaved parmesan melts beautifully into a golden, cheesy crust.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Halved or quartered for juicy bursts of flavor.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for depth.
- Olive Oil – Helps everything roast to perfection.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Simple seasoning goes a long way.
- Fresh Basil – Adds a pop of freshness at the end.
- Balsamic Reduction – Either homemade or store-bought for that sweet, tangy finish.
How to Make Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
- Preheat the Oven
Heat to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. - Prep the Tomatoes
In a bowl, toss halved tomatoes with garlic, 1 teaspoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside. - Prep the Asparagus
Snap off woody ends. Toss asparagus with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on your baking sheet. - Assemble & Roast
Sprinkle shaved parmesan evenly over asparagus. Spoon tomato mixture over the top. Roast for 12–15 minutes, until asparagus is tender and cheese is melted. - Finish & Serve
Top with fresh basil and drizzle with balsamic reduction. Serve immediately for maximum flavor.
How to Make Homemade Balsamic Reduction
Want to make your own glaze? It’s simple!
- Add ½ cup balsamic vinegar to a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Let cool—your reduction will thicken more as it sits.
- For a sweeter glaze, stir in 1–2 tablespoons honey, maple syrup, or agave while simmering.
Tips & Variations
- Swap parmesan with asiago or pecorino romano for a different flavor profile.
- Use a mix of colorful tomatoes for extra vibrance.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over individual servings instead of the whole tray if you prefer.
The Perfect Side Dish
This roasted asparagus pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or even pasta. It’s light yet flavorful enough to elevate any meal. Even picky eaters (yes, even kids!) will love the cheesy, tangy combination.
📌 Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes & Balsamic
Crisp-tender asparagus roasted with garlic, parmesan, and juicy tomatoes, then finished with fresh basil and balsamic glaze. The perfect quick side dish for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Servings: 4
Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes & Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place asparagus and cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the vegetables into a single layer and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Roast for 12–15 minutes, until asparagus is tender and tomatoes are slightly blistered.
- Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.