Asparagus-N-Peas
A creamy, cheesy vegetable casserole featuring tender asparagus and peas, perfect for a comforting side dish or light vegetarian meal with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the asparagus spears and save 1/3 of the juice.
- Drain the can of early peas.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained asparagus, peas, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and cream of mushroom soup.
- Add the saved asparagus juice to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers to enhance flavor and texture. If you don’t have Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar or mozzarella can also work well. Use low-fat cream of mushroom soup for a lighter option. Ensure to mix gently to avoid breaking the asparagus spears during preparation.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. Serve alongside a fresh garden salad or crusty bread to complement the creamy texture. Consider offering a side of Corn And Green Bean Pudding for a hearty vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving for best texture preservation, as it may make the asparagus soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus-N-Peas contains roughly 50 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g 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 use fresh asparagus instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh asparagus, blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help retain the vibrant color and crispness, ensuring your dish is fresh and flavorful.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This is great for meal prep and makes for an easy weeknight dinner.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a plant-based version and use vegan cheese. There are many dairy-free options available that melt well. This will maintain the creamy texture while keeping the dish suitable for vegan diets.
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).