Asparagus Venetian
A rich and cheesy asparagus dish featuring tender asparagus baked with a buttery onion soup mix and topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, perfect for elegant dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the asparagus.
- Blend the onion soup mix with melted butter or margarine.
- Arrange the cooked asparagus in a 9 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Drizzle the butter-onion mixture over the asparagus.
- Sprinkle both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
- Bake in a 450°F oven for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For this Asparagus Venetian recipe, choose firm, bright green asparagus for the best flavor. If you don’t have onion soup mix, you can substitute with sautéed onions and garlic for a fresher taste. For a lighter version, use olive oil instead of butter or margarine. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can enhance the flavors. This dish is perfect as a side to complement main courses like grilled chicken or fish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Asparagus Venetian as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with dishes like grilled salmon or chicken, and can also complement a light pasta dish. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a light salad. This dish is a great addition to any spring gathering or holiday meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the asparagus in a baking dish and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the asparagus soggy. Enjoy it warm for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Venetian contains roughly 237 calories, with 17g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value) and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 568mg per serving (25% 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 instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before cooking. Frozen asparagus tends to be more tender, so reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid mushiness. Adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the cheese melts perfectly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, just don't bake it until you're ready to serve. Assemble the asparagus, butter-onion mixture, and cheeses in the baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for Mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have Mozzarella cheese, you can use provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack can also work well. Each will give a unique twist to the dish while still delivering that gooey, cheesy texture.
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).