Baked Asparagus Or Spinach*
A simple, flavorful baked dish featuring tender asparagus or spinach topped with garlic, parsley, butter, and olive oil, perfect for quick side dishes or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place asparagus or wilted spinach in a baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
- Top with chopped butter and chopped garlic.
- Sprinkle with chopped Italian parsley.
- Cover and bake for 5 minutes at 375°F.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, try substituting the asparagus with green beans or Brussels sprouts. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. If using spinach, ensure it's well-wilted before baking to prevent excess moisture. This dish pairs well with Mediterranean recipes, enhancing the vibrant flavors of the vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this baked dish as a side to grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also complements pasta dishes like Mostaccioli With Spinach And Feta Cheese. For an elegant presentation, garnish with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This helps maintain the texture and flavor of the asparagus or spinach.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Asparagus Or Spinach* contains roughly 61 calories, with 4g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (76% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus or spinach for this recipe?
While fresh asparagus is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen spinach. Just ensure it's fully thawed and drained of excess moisture before adding it to the baking dish to avoid sogginess.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the garlic. This will give a nice kick without overpowering the dish's fresh flavors.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this baked asparagus or spinach is great for meal prep! It keeps well and can be easily reheated. Just prepare it in advance and store it in individual portions for a quick, healthy addition to your meals throughout the week.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).