Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that perfectly balances vibrant freshness with indulgent creaminess, then Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest is an absolute must-try. This recipe showcases tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection, their slightly crisp tips bursting with flavor, paired with the luxuriously smooth burrata cheese and bright, aromatic lemon zest. Whether you want a stunning appetizer or a light side that feels special, this dish brings a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will charm your taste buds and your guests alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to highlight and complement the others—from the earthy asparagus and silky burrata to the zesty lemon that lifts the entire dish with brightness and freshness.

• 12–16 asparagus spears, trimmed: Look for firm, vibrant green spears to ensure crispness when roasted.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to add richness and help the asparagus crisp beautifully.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Season simply to enhance the natural flavors without overwhelming the dish.
• 4 oz (115 g) burrata cheese: This creamy cheese is the star, adding a luxurious, mellow texture that pairs perfectly with the roasted asparagus.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Fresh lemon zest provides a burst of freshness and a subtle citrus aroma that brightens each bite.
• Optional: fresh parsley or microgreens for garnish: These add a touch of color and a lively herbal note to finish the presentation.

How to Make Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to a solid 400°F (200°C). Preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper ensures your asparagus doesn’t stick and makes cleanup super easy. The high heat is key for roasting the asparagus until tender with those wonderfully crispy tips we all crave.

Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus

Give your asparagus spears a good toss in olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning allows the natural flavors to shine while the olive oil helps create that irresistible crispy texture. Spread them out evenly in a single layer on your baking sheet so each spear gets the perfect roast.

Step 3: Roast

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast the asparagus for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll want to watch for tender stalks with tips that have just started to crisp up and brown slightly. This roasting step is where the asparagus transforms, developing a lovely depth of flavor and satisfying texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Burrata

While the asparagus is roasting, take the burrata out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving. Letting it come to room temperature softens the cheese perfectly, making it so much easier to tear or slice and letting its rich creaminess shine through.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Arrange the roasted asparagus beautifully on a serving platter. Tear or slice the burrata and gently place it on top. Finally, sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over everything, infusing the dish with bright citrus notes that elevate the flavors. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or microgreens if you want an extra pop of color and freshness.

Step 6: Serve

This is a dish best enjoyed fresh and immediately. The contrast between the warm, crispy asparagus and the cool, creamy burrata is irresistible. Whether as a stunning appetizer or a refreshing side, the Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest makes for a memorable bite every time.

How to Serve Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest

Garnishes

Garnishing Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest is a lovely chance to add color and additional layers of flavor. Fresh parsley works beautifully to bring in a subtle herbal note, while microgreens add a modern touch and delicate crunch that complements the creamy burrata.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple grain sides like quinoa or farro, enhancing its fresh vibe without overpowering. If you want something heartier, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light but elegant meal that balances brightness and richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, try arranging the asparagus and burrata on a long wooden board or beautiful ceramic platter. Drizzle a little extra olive oil or a balsamic glaze for added sophistication, and sprinkle some toasted nuts like pine nuts or almonds for texture contrast. The key is to keep it visually vibrant and inviting to match the fresh, exciting flavors of Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the burrata separate if possible to maintain its texture, adding it fresh when ready to serve again.

Freezing

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can change the texture of both the asparagus and burrata. It is not recommended to freeze Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest if you want to fully enjoy its crispy and creamy qualities.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, warm the asparagus gently in a skillet over medium heat just until heated through to preserve some crispiness. Add freshly torn burrata and lemon zest right before serving to revive the dish’s signature creamy and bright flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

Fresh asparagus is definitely the best choice for Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest because it crisps up beautifully when roasted. Frozen asparagus tends to release more water and can become soggy, which affects the final texture of the dish.

What can I substitute for burrata if I can’t find it?

If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella with a little drizzle of cream makes a good substitute, though it won’t have the same luscious cream center. Ricotta can also work to provide creaminess paired with the roasted asparagus.

How do I know when the asparagus is perfectly roasted?

You want asparagus that is tender but still has a slight snap, with tips that have browned just a bit to develop that signature crispiness. Roasting for 12 to 15 minutes at 400°F usually achieves this balance wonderfully.

Can I prepare the asparagus ahead of time?

You can roast the asparagus a few hours before serving and let it cool. Just warm it slightly before plating, and add the burrata and lemon zest fresh to maintain the contrasting temperatures and textures.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest is a fantastic vegetarian dish, combining fresh vegetables and creamy cheese for a meat-free option that is both satisfying and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Treat yourself and your loved ones to the delightfully fresh, creamy, and vibrant flavors of Crispy Roasted Asparagus with Burrata & Lemon Zest. It’s a recipe that’s simple to make yet impressively elegant, perfect for adding a touch of celebration to any meal. Once you try it, this dish will likely become one of your favorites to serve again and again.

Print