Provolone and Almond Asparagus

By polledl

oven roasting is a wonderfully simple way to intensify the flavor of vegetables. When paired with provolone cheese, almonds and lemon, this delicious asparagus just can't be beat.

Ingredients

• 1 lb asparagus of medium thickness
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• 2 tbsp sliced almonds
• 1 3/4 oz sharp provolone cheese
• 1/2 tbsp lemon juice

Preparation

Step 1

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Trim and discard tough ends of asparagus. Place asparagus in 9 x 9 inch pan. Brush with oil and sprinkle with pepper. Bake until tender, 16 - 18 mins.
2. Meanwhle, spread almonds in 8x8 inch pan. Bake until lightly browned, about 4 mins. Grate cheese to yield 1/2 cup.
3. Sprinkle cheese over asparagus. Bake until slightly melted. Remove from oven; transfer to serving platter. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with almonds. Serve immediatley.