Asparagus Almondine
Asparagus Almondine offers tender green asparagus enhanced with creamy mushroom soup, melted cheese, crunchy bread crumbs, and toasted almonds, making it a savory side perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the asparagus, reserving the liquid.
- Lay the asparagus in a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup with 1/2 cup of the reserved asparagus liquid, salt, and pepper; pour over the asparagus.
- Sprinkle grated American cheese over the top.
- Combine bread crumbs and melted margarine; sprinkle evenly over all ingredients.
- Dot the casserole with blanched almonds.
- Bake for 45 minutes at 300°F (150°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream of mushroom soup or substituting with a homemade white sauce. If you prefer a crunchier topping, try using panko bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs. Blanched almonds can be swapped with toasted pine nuts for a different flavor. Always taste your mixture before baking to adjust seasoning as needed, especially if using canned ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Asparagus Almondine is a delightful side dish that pairs well with grilled chicken or roasted fish. It complements hearty main courses like beef or pork, and can be served alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a comforting family dinner, consider serving it with Simple And Delicious Chili Cheese Dip as an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the asparagus mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Almondine contains roughly 191 calories, with 8g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1235mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh asparagus instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh asparagus! Blanch it briefly in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, then shock it in ice water before layering it in the casserole. This will help maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Asparagus Almondine gluten-free, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
What can I substitute for American cheese?
If you don't have American cheese on hand, you can substitute it with cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor or a mild mozzarella for a creamier texture. Just be sure to adjust the quantity as needed to achieve the desired meltiness.
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).