Tomato And Asparagus Casserole
A flavorful casserole combining ripe tomatoes and tender asparagus, topped with melted sharp cheese and a hint of Tabasco, perfect for a light, savory meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cut stems and ends off tomatoes and slice into 3/4 inch thick slices.
- Cut asparagus spears in half.
- Arrange tomato slices in a shallow buttered 2-quart rectangular baking dish.
- Place asparagus halves on top of tomato slices.
- Combine mayonnaise and grated cheese in a bowl.
- Add Tabasco sauce to taste.
- Spoon the cheese mixture over the asparagus and tomatoes.
- Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until cheese is melted.
- Do not overbake.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the cheese mixture. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, use canned diced tomatoes for convenience. You can also try different cheese varieties, such as mozzarella or a blend, to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole works well as a side dish for grilled meats or fish, making it a great complement to summer barbecues. It can also be served alongside a refreshing salad for a light meal. For a complete vegetarian dinner, pair it with a slice of crusty bread or serve it alongside a slice of Spinach Tart.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the texture of the cheese topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato And Asparagus Casserole contains roughly 449 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 766mg per serving (33% 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 canned?
Yes, frozen asparagus can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the casserole to prevent excess moisture. This will help maintain the right consistency and flavor of the dish.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for this casserole as it melts beautifully and adds a robust flavor. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste profile. A blend of cheeses can also add depth to the dish.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining guests or busy weeknights.
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).