Cheese And Asparagus: The Perfect Pairing

Asparagus is a delicious and healthy vegetable, but it can be tricky to cook properly. One of the best ways to prepare asparagus is to roast it in the oven with cheese. This method is quick, easy, and results in a tasty side dish that goes well with a variety of main courses. When it comes to choosing the best cheese to pair with asparagus, mozzarella and parmesan are popular options. The mild flavour and melting texture of mozzarella complement the asparagus without overpowering it, while the addition of parmesan adds a delicious crispy golden finish. For a slightly different flavour, some people also like to use Gruyere or Asiago cheese.

Mozzarella and Parmesan are a good combination

One recipe for cheesy garlic roasted asparagus uses mozzarella and parmesan, as well as olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. The asparagus is roasted for 10-15 minutes, and then the cheese is sprinkled on top and broiled until golden brown.

Another recipe for cheesy baked asparagus also uses these two cheeses, along with olive oil, garlic, and seasoning. The asparagus is tossed in the olive oil, garlic, and seasoning, and then the mozzarella and parmesan are sprinkled on top. This dish is then grilled until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

A third recipe for cheesy garlic roasted asparagus uses shredded mozzarella and parmesan, as well as olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. The asparagus is coated in the olive oil and garlic mixture, roasted, and then topped with the cheeses and broiled until the cheese is melted.

Finally, a recipe for asparagus au gratin uses mozzarella, parmesan, and asiago cheese to make a thick cheese sauce that is poured over the asparagus before broiling. This combination of cheeses provides a delicious coating for the asparagus, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.

Avoid cheddar as it overpowers the asparagus

When it comes to asparagus, it's all about finding the right balance. Asparagus has a delicate flavour that can be easily overpowered, so it's important to choose a cheese that complements rather than overwhelms. While cheddar is a popular and versatile cheese, its strong flavour and creamy texture can be a bit too much for asparagus.

Asparagus has a subtle bitterness and an earthy tone, so you want a cheese that won't mask these nuances. Cheddar, with its sharp and tangy taste, tends to dominate the dish, leaving the asparagus playing second fiddle. It's like pairing a bold, full-bodied wine with a subtle fish dish—the wine overpowers the food, and you lose the subtle flavours that make the dish special.

Instead, opt for cheeses with milder flavours that will enhance, rather than hide, the asparagus. Mozzarella, for example, has a subtle flavour and is known for its melting ability, making it a perfect choice for baked asparagus dishes. Parmesan is another excellent option; it adds a delicious crispness and a salty kick without overwhelming the asparagus. Gruyere, Fontina, and Asiago are also worth considering for their mild, nutty flavours.

When crafting a dish, it's essential to understand the role each ingredient plays. In the case of asparagus and cheese, the asparagus should be the star, with the cheese providing a supporting role. By avoiding cheddar, you allow the asparagus to shine and create a more harmonious culinary experience.

Gruyere can be used instead of Parmesan

When it comes to baking asparagus, Gruyere is a good substitute for Parmesan. In a recipe for Cheesy Baked Asparagus, the author suggests using Gruyere in place of Parmesan. The recipe involves baking asparagus with olive oil, garlic, mozzarella and Parmesan. The mozzarella is used for its cheese pull, and the Parmesan is used to add a golden crisp. The author suggests Gruyere as a substitute for Parmesan, as its flavour does not overpower the asparagus.

Gruyere is not ideal for melting, but it can be folded into classics like French onion soup. It also adds tons of flavour to baked recipes like a strata, lasagne, or mac and cheese.

Olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper are also needed

The asparagus is then baked, broiled or grilled, and the olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper combination ensures that it is flavoured and cooked to perfection. The olive oil and garlic mixture can be whisked together before being drizzled over the asparagus. The asparagus should be baked for around 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the spears, to avoid overcooking.

The salt and pepper are added to taste, and it is recommended to use more pepper than salt as Parmesan cheese, which is often used in this dish, is already quite salty. Adjustments can be made to the amount of salt and pepper after baking, if needed.

It's a good side dish for fish, chicken or beef

Cheesy asparagus is a great side dish for fish, chicken or beef. It's a simple dish that can be made in under 20 minutes and is a great way to get your greens in.

The key to a good cheesy asparagus recipe is to use a mild cheese that doesn't overpower the flavour of the asparagus. Mozzarella is a popular choice as it has a subtle flavour and melts well. Parmesan is also used in many recipes as it adds a delicious crispness to the dish. Other cheese options include Gruyere, Asiago, Fontina and Gruyere.

To prepare the asparagus, simply trim the woody ends and toss the spears in olive oil, salt and pepper, and garlic. You can also add in some garlic powder if you like. Then, bake the asparagus in the oven for 10-15 minutes, before sprinkling on your chosen cheese and returning to the oven to melt.

Cheesy asparagus goes well with a range of main dishes, including fish such as salmon, chicken dishes like parmesan-crusted chicken, and beef options like roast beef tenderloin. It's a versatile side that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and is a great way to get picky eaters to enjoy their veggies!

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