Weight Watchers Parmesan Asparagus is a mouth-watering, crispy, and hearty side dish. This recipe is prepared with fresh asparagus stems, low-fat cheese, and top-quality seasonings. Asparagus is a nutrient-dense and versatile vegetable that is rich in vitamins A & K and low in calories. It is an excellent addition to a healthy diet because it is also a strong source of fiber and antioxidants. Weight Watchers Parmesan Asparagus becomes a filling and wholesome dish when combined with parmesan cheese, which is high in calcium and protein. This dish is ideal for Weight Watchers followers due to its low point value.
Let’s begin the recipe with the easy-to-understand instructions (listed below).
STATS
- Course: Side dish
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-free, Weight Watchers
- Total Time: Twenty minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 to 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: Five minutes
- Method: Oven
EQUIPMENT
- Sharp knife
- Oven
- Baking dish
- One silicone pastry brush helps to mist the baking dish
- 1 mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Baking paper
- Serving dish
INGREDIENTS
- 1 lb fresh asparagus stems, about one bunch
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- One-fourth tsp of garlic powder
- Olive oil 1 tbsp
- Black pepper powder, 1/8 tsp
- Freshly grated low-fat Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
INGREDIENT NOTES AND THEIR ALTERNATIVES
Parmesan Cheese:
- Use fat-free parmesan cheese to balance the fat points. Pecorino Romano, a combination of Italian cheeses, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, can be used in its place. The Weight Watchers points will change accordingly.
Seasoning:
- Toss the asparagus stalks with good-quality and fresh seasonings such as black pepper, salt, and garlic powder. You can also use lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or Italian seasoning.
Olive oil:
- A hint of oil provides flavor and helps the cheese adhere. You can use cooking spray for a lower-point option, but the cheese may not stick.
INSTRUCTIONS
- We will preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
- Then, shift a baking paper in the baking dish.
- Brush the paper with cooking oil to prevent burning.
- Next, clean the asparagus stems and trim their firm ends with a sharp knife.
- After that, add asparagus, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper to a bowl.
- Next, add oil to the asparagus bowl.
- Now, toss all ingredients with a spoon until all spices are absorbed into the asparagus.
- Next, spread the tossed asparagus on the baking dish.
- After that, add a layer of grated Parmesan cheese over the dish.
- Bake for 12 to 15 mins or until the asparagus is soft.
- The tempting and cheesy Weight Watchers Baked Parmesan Asparagus is ready.
- Serve it in a dish and top it with lemon wedges.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Serve the baked asparagus with grilled lean chicken pieces.
- Pair it with brown rice and baked salmon.
- Whole-grain pasta or Italian-style pasta also pairs well with this dish.
- Enjoy it with lean beef tenderloin and baked turkey cutlets.
TIPS
- Choose thick and fresh asparagus stems to get the best flavor.
- Use a high-quality and low-fat Parmesan cheese.
- Cut off the woody ends to ensure the stems of asparagus are tender.
- Try this baked dish with different sorts of herbs like rosemary, etc.
STORAGE INFORMATION
Fridge:
- We can store the remaining baked asparagus in a bowl covered with a lid and refrigerate it for 2/5 days.
Freezer:
- You can freeze the baked asparagus in a covered packet for thirty to seventy days.
Reheating:
- The baked asparagus will lose its crispiness when reheated. It may be reheated in an air fryer for a few minutes or in a preheated oven at a low temperature.
FAQs
For this recipe, what kind of asparagus works best?
- Asparagus, fresh/ frozen, can be utilized. Pick thick or thin stalks according to your taste. The great flavor will come from fresh asparagus.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION/SERVING
Total Calories 70 kcal
Dietary Fiber 2 g
Protein 4 g
Sugar 2 g
Total Fat 4 g
Carbohydrates 5 g
The total Weight Watchers points for baked asparagus per serving is only two points.