Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan Cheese


Asparagus is the nutritional start of spring.  The are a dieter's dream, with 12 large spears having only 45 calories and naturally low carb. They contain about 30 percent of the RDA of vitamin A and a generous amount of potassium to help prevent cancer, high blood pressure and stroke.  In addition, asparagus contains no cholesterol and virtually no fat, making it an excellent choice for those concerned about heart disease.  Plus it tastes great in this recipe.  What's not to love about that?




This is my favorite way to cook fresh asparagus. Roasted to tender perfection with garlic and parmesan cheese.  

First you will need to remove the tough stalk from the end of the asparagus.  To do this grab the asparagus at each end and bend.  The stalk will snap at the point where it starts to get tough.  Place the asparagus in a bowl and drizzle with the olive oil.  Sprinkle on the garlic and salt and stir until coated.

Place on baking sheet and sprinkle on the parmesan cheese. Bake in preheated oven at 425 degrees F for 15 minutes or until tender and edges are starting to turn crispy brown. 


                   
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Makes 4 servings

Ingredients:
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon sea salt

Directions:
1.  Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C)
2.  Place the asparagus in a bowl and drizzle with the olive oil.  Add the garlic and salt and stir to coat.
3.  Arrange the asparagus on a baking sheet.  Sprinkle with the parmesan cheese.
4.  Bake in the oven for 15 minutes.

calories  123        6%                carbohydrates  5.2g     2%
cholesterol  2mg  <1%                fat  10.8g                    17%
fiber  2.4g            10%               protein  3.3g                7%
sodium  471         19%

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