Asparagus Caesar
A vibrant and flavorful asparagus dish featuring a lemon butter glaze, topped with cheese and paprika, perfect for elegant dinners or springtime gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook asparagus in a small amount of water for 6-8 minutes or until crisp tender; drain.
- Place asparagus in a 12x8x2 inch baking dish.
- Combine melted butter and lemon juice; pour over asparagus.
- Sprinkle cheese and paprika over the asparagus.
- Place under broiler until browned.
- Garnish with lemon slices, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or Dijon mustard to the butter and lemon juice mixture. If you're out of fresh asparagus, green beans can be a delicious substitute. To ensure even cooking, try to select asparagus stalks that are similar in size. Broiling times may vary, so keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
This Asparagus Caesar pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve alongside a light salad or some crusty bread for a satisfying lunch or dinner. For a vegan option, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative. It also complements dishes like Vegetable Soup With Cheese perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the asparagus in a baking dish and cover with foil to maintain moisture, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the asparagus mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Caesar contains roughly 127 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), iron (21% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the asparagus and the sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine and broil the dish just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Parmesan cheese is a classic choice for this dish, but you can also use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try a vegan Parmesan substitute that will still give you that cheesy, savory kick.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like broccoli or zucchini for added color and nutrition. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes to the asparagus for even cooking. This could also create a delightful twist, similar to Fried Asparagus In Beer Batter.
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).