Asparagus Parmigiana
Asparagus Parmigiana offers a delightful combination of tender asparagus spears baked with rich Parmesan cheese, creamy egg-milk mixture, and aromatic oregano. This elegant dish is perfect for springtime dinners or special occasions, delivering a savory, cheesy flavor with a satisfying texture that complements various main courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook asparagus until just barely tender; drain. Add butter and arrange in a shallow buttered baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Blend egg and milk together and pour over the asparagus and cheese in the dish.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano. Dot with additional butter.
- Sprinkle lightly with more Parmesan cheese and bake for 30 minutes at 375°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder to the asparagus before baking. If you're out of Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute. To make this dish even more filling, you could layer in some cooked pasta, creating a delightful fusion with Cheesy Pasta. Make sure not to overcook the asparagus to maintain its vibrant color and crispness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Asparagus Parmigiana as a delicious side dish to grilled meats or fish, or pair it with a light salad for a vegetarian meal. It can also be enjoyed as a main dish alongside crusty Italian Olive Bread for a complete dinner experience. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of pasta or alongside Zucchini Parmesan.
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 for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat, which can make the asparagus mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Parmigiana contains roughly 449 calories, with 11g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2095mg per serving (91% 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 frozen asparagus for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before cooking. Frozen asparagus may have a softer texture, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for milk in this recipe?
If you need a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can work well as substitutes. Just be mindful that some non-dairy milks may alter the flavor slightly, so choose one that complements your taste.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply increase the cooking time by a few minutes since it will be starting cold.
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).