Asiago Cheese Sauce

Introduction

History

The origins of Asiago Cheese Sauce can be traced back to Italy, where Asiago cheese itself originates. Asiago cheese comes from the Veneto and Trentino regions and has been produced since the time of the Roman Empire. Over the years, chefs and home cooks alike have experimented with Asiago, incorporating it into various dishes, including sauces. This particular recipe is a modern take on traditional Italian cooking, blending the rich flavors of Asiago with a simple, yet versatile, white sauce base.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, grate your Asiago cheese finely to ensure it melts evenly into the sauce. Always add the cheese to the sauce off the heat to avoid separating or becoming grainy. If you find your sauce too thick, you can thin it with a little extra water or milk until you reach your desired consistency. For an extra smooth sauce, consider blending it with an immersion blender.

Serving Suggestions

This Asiago Cheese Sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, especially fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni. It's also excellent over steamed or roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or baked fish. For a decadent treat, try it over homemade gnocchi or as a dip for warm, crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a smooth sauce is constant stirring over low heat. This prevents the sauce from clumping and ensures even melting of the cheese. For an extra silky texture, pass the finished sauce through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Asiago cheese is not available, Parmesan, Romano, or aged Cheddar can be used as substitutes. For a gluten-free version, cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend can replace the unbleached flour in the white sauce mix.

Make Ahead Tips

This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a little water or milk to thin if necessary.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Asiago Cheese Sauce in a warmed gravy boat alongside your main dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Asiago cheese and a few sprigs of fresh thyme or parsley for a touch of color.

Pairing Recommendations

A crisp, dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the Asiago Cheese Sauce. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the sauce's creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Asiago Cheese Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, warm the sauce over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a little water or milk to adjust the consistency if needed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Asiago Cheese Sauce contains approximately 150 calories. This makes it an indulgent yet manageable addition to meals for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

This Asiago Cheese Sauce is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the unbleached flour used in the white sauce mix. Each serving contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those on lower-carb diets.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come primarily from the butter and the Asiago cheese. Each serving contains about 10 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. Using high-quality butter and cheese not only contributes to the flavor but also provides a source of healthy fats.

Proteins

Asiago cheese is a good source of protein, and this sauce benefits from it. Each serving of Asiago Cheese Sauce contains approximately 7 grams of protein, contributing to its satiating properties and making it a hearty addition to any meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Asiago cheese is rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A and B12. These nutrients contribute to bone health, metabolism, and maintaining vision and skin health. Each serving of this sauce provides a good source of these essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are dairy (from the butter and cheese) and gluten (from the flour). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should avoid this sauce or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Asiago Cheese Sauce is a rich source of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, with moderate calories and low carbohydrates. It's a nutritious addition to a balanced diet, especially for those looking to add more flavor to their meals without significantly increasing their calorie intake.

Summary

Asiago Cheese Sauce is a luxurious addition to a wide range of dishes, offering a rich blend of flavors and nutrients. With its versatile nature and the option for customization, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you're looking to enhance a simple weeknight dinner or impress guests at your next gathering, Asiago Cheese Sauce is a perfect choice.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. Asiago cheese has always been one of my favorites, with its rich and tangy flavor that adds a special touch to any dish. I couldn't wait to try my hand at making a delicious Asiago cheese sauce.

I first came across this recipe many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, with a wealth of knowledge passed down from generations before her. I remember watching in awe as she effortlessly whipped up dishes that seemed to come straight from a five-star restaurant.

One day, while flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my grandmother, I stumbled upon a recipe for Asiago cheese sauce. The ingredients were simple - Asiago cheese, butter, flour, milk, and a dash of seasoning - but the end result promised to be nothing short of spectacular.

I eagerly asked my grandmother about the recipe, and she smiled warmly before sitting me down at the kitchen table. As she began to explain the steps to me, I could see the passion and love she had for cooking shining through her eyes.

She started by grating the Asiago cheese, explaining that using fresh cheese would give the sauce a bold and authentic flavor. Next, she melted butter in a saucepan and added flour to create a roux, which would thicken the sauce and give it a creamy texture.

Once the roux had cooked for a few minutes, my grandmother slowly added milk and whisked it continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. The kitchen was filled with the enticing aroma of butter and cheese, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As the sauce began to thicken, my grandmother added the grated Asiago cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper. She stirred the mixture gently, watching as the cheese melted and combined with the other ingredients to create a smooth and velvety sauce.

Finally, after a few minutes of simmering, the Asiago cheese sauce was ready. My grandmother poured it over a plate of steamed vegetables, and we sat down to enjoy our creation together.

The sauce was everything I had hoped for and more. The rich and creamy texture of the cheese paired perfectly with the delicate flavors of the vegetables, creating a dish that was both comforting and elegant.

From that day on, Asiago cheese sauce became a staple in our household. My grandmother would make it for special occasions and family gatherings, always taking the time to teach me the intricacies of the recipe.

Over the years, I have made this sauce countless times, each batch reminding me of the love and knowledge that my grandmother passed down to me. I have added my own twists and variations to the recipe, experimenting with different seasonings and ingredients to create unique and delicious dishes.

But no matter how many times I make Asiago cheese sauce, it will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of the bond between generations, of the joy and passion that can be found in the simple act of cooking.

And as I sit here now, preparing a batch of Asiago cheese sauce for my own family, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking that my grandmother bestowed upon me. Her recipe for Asiago cheese sauce will always be a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the love and traditions that continue to shape my life.

Categories

| Asiago Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Italian Recipes | Sauce Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients