Cheesy Asparagus Spears
Cheesy Asparagus Spears offer a delightful combination of tender asparagus enhanced with creamy cheese and a touch of sharp green onion. This elegant dish is perfect as a side for brunch or dinner, providing vibrant flavors and a satisfying cheesy crunch that appeals to vegetable lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
- 3/4 lb. fresh asparagus or 10 oz. frozen asparagus spears ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. water ⓘ
- 1/2 cup cream-style cottage cheese, drained ⓘ
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (1 oz.) ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. sliced green onion ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- several dash bottled hot pepper sauce ⓘ
- 1 tsp. butter or margarine ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. fine dry bread crumbs ⓘ
Instructions
- Wash fresh asparagus and break off the tough ends.
- Arrange fresh or frozen spears with tips toward the center in a 10 x 6 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Add water and cover with vented clear plastic wrap.
- Cook on 100% power for 7 to 9 minutes or until tender; rearrange the asparagus once by switching center spears with those on the edges.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending the cottage cheese until smooth before adding it to the dish. If you don't have green onions, chives or shallots can be good substitutes. You can also mix in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella instead of the shredded cheese for a different flavor profile. If using frozen asparagus, ensure it is thawed and drained to avoid excess water in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy asparagus spears make a great side dish for grilled meats or fish. They pair beautifully with the 'Best Beer Biscuits' for a hearty meal. For a complete vegetarian option, serve alongside a light salad, such as 'Cherry Fruit Salad'. Garnish with additional green onions or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cheesy asparagus spears can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melty again. Avoid overheating to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Asparagus Spears contains roughly 128 calories, with 5g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor. Just ensure the cheese melts well and complements the dish, as each will bring a unique taste to the cheesy asparagus.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, cheesy asparagus spears are great for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving. They make a healthy and quick addition to lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative, such as cashew cheese or a dairy-free yogurt. Use vegan cheese shreds to replace the regular cheese. Adjust the seasoning as needed for flavor.
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).