Asparagus Delight
A creamy asparagus and mushroom casserole with sliced eggs, perfect for brunch or light dinners, combining tender vegetables with savory flavors and smooth sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the asparagus, reserving 1 cup of the liquid, and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually add the milk and reserved asparagus liquid, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add salt and white pepper to the sauce.
- Arrange the drained asparagus in a serving dish or casserole.
- Top with sliced hard-cooked eggs and drained mushroom stems and pieces.
- Pour the sauce over the assembled ingredients.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding grated cheese like cheddar or Parmesan to the sauce before pouring it over the asparagus. If you don't have mushroom stems and pieces, sautéed fresh mushrooms or canned button mushrooms can be a great substitute. You can also use gluten-free flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Asparagus Delight pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or fish for a balanced dinner. For a vegetarian option, serve it with a side of quinoa or rice. A slice of Grandma Addie'S Plain Cake For Little Don can make for a delightful dessert following this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Delight contains roughly 1620 calories, with 9g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 153g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value) and iron (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1862mg per serving (81% 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 use fresh asparagus for this recipe. Blanch the fresh asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and shock in ice water before using it in the dish. This will help maintain its vibrant color and texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with Asparagus Delight?
Asparagus Delight pairs well with light proteins like grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or rice.
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).