Hot Asparagus
Creamy blue cheese and tender asparagus wrapped in bread make a savory appetizer perfect for entertaining or special occasions, offering rich flavors and elegant presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim crusts from bread and flatten slices slightly with a rolling pin.
- Blend blue cheese, cream cheese, and egg until workable and spread on each slice of bread.
- Roll one cooked asparagus spear in each slice of bread with cheese mixture.
- Use toothpicks to fasten edges securely.
- Dip each rolled bread in melted margarine to coat thoroughly.
- Place on a cookie sheet and freeze until firm.
- Cut each rolled slice into three pieces and store frozen.
- When ready to serve, bake at 400°F for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cheeses sit at room temperature before blending. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider substituting the blue cheese with goat cheese or cream cheese alone. You can also experiment by adding herbs like dill or chives to the cheese mixture for added flavor. Ensure the asparagus is well-drained before rolling to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
These hot asparagus rolls make an excellent appetizer or party snack. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce, like a lemon aioli or spicy mustard. They pair beautifully with a light salad or a refreshing drink, such as a sparkling lemonade. For a delightful dessert afterward, consider serving with a slice of Christmas Strawberry Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, place the frozen pieces on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Asparagus contains roughly 1169 calories, with 10g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1100mg per serving (48% 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! Simply blanch the fresh spears in boiling water for a couple of minutes, then shock them in ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help maintain their crispness and flavor.
Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls ahead of time and freeze them until you're ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for parties. Just remember to bake them straight from the freezer without thawing.
What can I serve with these asparagus rolls?
These asparagus rolls pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a light salad, fresh veggies and dip, or a selection of cheeses. They also complement cocktails or sparkling beverages, making them perfect for gatherings.
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).