Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Garlic-Infused Asparagus and Cherry Tomato Bake?
It is a nutritious vegetable side dish featuring fresh asparagus and juicy cherry tomatoes roasted with aromatic garlic and olive oil.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
What are the main ingredients required?
The main ingredients are 2 lbs of asparagus, 1/4 cup olive oil, 6 garlic cloves, 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, salt, and black pepper.
How should I prepare the asparagus before cooking?
The asparagus should be washed, patted dry, and have the tough ends removed.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
How long does it take to roast the vegetables?
Roast the dish for 20 to 25 minutes.
How do I know when the dish is finished cooking?
The dish is done when the asparagus is tender and slightly caramelized and the cherry tomatoes are blistered and juicy.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Is this asparagus bake gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains 105 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 7.5g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 7.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this recipe provide fiber?
Yes, each serving provides 2.5g of dietary fiber.
How much protein is in a serving?
Each serving contains 1.5g of protein.
How should I arrange the vegetables on the baking sheet?
Arrange the asparagus in a single layer and place the cherry tomatoes in the center for an even roast and beautiful presentation.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
While fresh garlic is recommended for the best aromatic richness, powder can be used if fresh is unavailable.
Should the cherry tomatoes be cut in half?
No, the recipe calls for them to be roasted whole until they blister.
Can I serve this as a main course?
Yes, it can be served as a delicious side dish or as a light main course.
What type of oil is recommended?
The recipe specifies using 1/4 cup of olive oil.
Do I need to toss the ingredients together?
Yes, toss the asparagus, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl to ensure even coating before roasting.
Is it necessary to pat the vegetables dry?
Yes, drying the asparagus and tomatoes ensures they roast properly rather than steaming in the oven.
What makes this dish 'garlic-infused'?
The use of six finely chopped garlic cloves tossed with the vegetables and oil creates a deep aromatic flavor during the roasting process.
Can I store and reheat leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated, though the texture of the asparagus may soften.
Is there any sodium in this recipe?
The sodium content depends on the amount of salt you add to taste, as the raw ingredients are naturally low in sodium.
Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, grape tomatoes are a perfect substitute for cherry tomatoes in this bake.
Is this a quick recipe to make?
Yes, it is tagged as 'quick and easy' and takes about 30 minutes including prep and roasting.
What does 'caramelized' mean in this context?
It refers to the natural sugars in the asparagus browning slightly in the high heat of the oven, enhancing the flavor.
Can I add other herbs to this dish?
While the recipe focuses on garlic, herbs like thyme or rosemary would complement the flavors well.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is high in vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats while being relatively low in calories.
Should I serve this dish warm or cold?
The recipe recommends serving it warm immediately after roasting for the best flavor and texture.