Are you ready to elevate your vegetable side dish from ordinary to extraordinary? This Asparagus with Havarti Cheese recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen, promising a mouthwatering combination of crisp, tender asparagus and luxuriously melted cheese that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Perfect for busy home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal effort, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish in just 15 minutes!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 4 oz Havarti cheese, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly under cold running water, then pat dry completely with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Trim the woody ends of the asparagus by holding each spear and gently bending until it naturally breaks at its natural tender point.
- Place the trimmed asparagus on a large baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the asparagus, then use your hands to gently toss and coat each spear, ensuring uniform coverage.
- Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the asparagus, seasoning to your taste preference.
- Carefully place thin slices of Havarti cheese over the asparagus, distributing them evenly across the spears.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast for 8-10 minutes, until the asparagus is tender-crisp and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly.
- Serve immediately while warm, ensuring each portion has a good mix of asparagus and melted Havarti cheese.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm asparagus spears with tight, compact tips for the best texture and flavor.
- Pat the asparagus completely dry before roasting to ensure proper caramelization and prevent steaming.
- Use a high-quality, sharp Havarti cheese for the most flavorful melting experience.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each asparagus spear some space to roast evenly.
- Watch the cheese carefully during the last few minutes of roasting to prevent burning.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a light sprinkle of garlic powder or fresh herbs before roasting.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the cheese at its melty, gooey best.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
