Asparagus-Ham Rolls

Introduction

History

The Asparagus-Ham Rolls recipe finds its roots in the traditional European cuisine where asparagus has been a beloved spring vegetable for centuries. The practice of wrapping vegetables in meat can be traced back to the French culinary tradition of roulades. Over time, this recipe has evolved and been adapted in various cultures, incorporating local ingredients and flavors. The version presented here, with its creamy cheese sauce, is a modern American take that gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly as a dish that symbolizes the arrival of spring.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making Asparagus-Ham Rolls, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh asparagus spears for the best flavor and texture. They should be bright green and firm.

- If fresh asparagus is not available, canned asparagus can be a convenient alternative, but be sure to drain it well.

- Thinly sliced ham works best for easy rolling and to ensure that it cooks through evenly.

- For a smoother cheese sauce, grate the cheese finely and add it gradually to the sauce, stirring constantly to prevent clumps.

Serving Suggestions

Asparagus-Ham Rolls can be served as a standalone dish or accompanied by a light salad for a complete meal. They are best enjoyed hot, with the cheese sauce poured over just before serving to maintain their creamy texture.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques involved in making Asparagus-Ham Rolls include rolling the ham and asparagus tightly to ensure they hold together during baking and making a roux for the cheese sauce to ensure it is thick and creamy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Broccoli can be used instead of asparagus for a different flavor profile.

- Turkey or chicken slices can replace ham for those who prefer poultry.

- Almond milk and vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

The asparagus-ham rolls can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. The cheese sauce can also be made in advance and gently reheated, adding a little milk if it becomes too thick.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Asparagus-Ham Rolls on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color. A drizzle of the cheese sauce over the top makes the dish look even more inviting.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Asparagus-Ham Rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. The cheese sauce may need to be thinned with a little milk when reheated.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Asparagus-Ham Rolls contains approximately 350 calories. The calories are primarily derived from the fats and proteins in the dish.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Asparagus-Ham Rolls contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the flour used in the sauce and the toast served with the rolls.

Fats

This dish contains about 18 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being the butter and cheese used in the cheese sauce, as well as the fat content of the ham.

Proteins

Asparagus-Ham Rolls are a good source of protein, providing about 22 grams per serving. The protein comes mainly from the ham and the cheese.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in several vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin A from the asparagus and calcium from the cheese. It also provides iron and potassium.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include dairy (butter and cheese) and gluten (flour and toast). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should take caution.

Summary

Asparagus-Ham Rolls offer a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. However, those monitoring their intake of fats, particularly saturated fats, or those with specific food allergies, should consider this in their dietary plans.

Summary

Asparagus-Ham Rolls are a versatile and delicious dish that combines the fresh flavors of spring with the comfort of a creamy cheese sauce. Whether served at a special occasion or enjoyed as a delightful weekend meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With options for customization and make-ahead preparation, it's a practical choice for any home cook looking to add a touch of elegance to their meal repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Asparagus-Ham Rolls. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret at her cozy little cottage by the sea. Margaret was known far and wide for her culinary prowess, and I always looked forward to the delicious meals she would prepare for me during my visits.

On this particular day, Margaret had planned a special lunch for us to enjoy on her sunny patio overlooking the ocean. As I sat at the table, savoring the salty sea air and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore, Margaret presented me with a plate of the most exquisite appetizers I had ever seen. The asparagus-ham rolls were arranged on a delicate porcelain platter, each one a perfectly wrapped bundle of green asparagus spears encased in thin slices of savory ham.

I couldn't wait to taste them, and as I took my first bite, I was immediately struck by the delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tender asparagus contrasted beautifully with the salty ham, and the whole dish was brought together by a creamy hollandaise sauce that Margaret had drizzled over the top. It was a culinary masterpiece, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

After finishing our meal, I begged Margaret to share the recipe with me. She laughed and agreed, knowing how much I loved to cook and experiment in the kitchen. As she dictated the ingredients and instructions to me, I furiously jotted them down in my tattered recipe book, making sure not to miss a single detail.

Over the years, I have made these asparagus-ham rolls countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have served them at elegant dinner parties and casual gatherings, and they have never failed to impress my guests. The recipe has become a staple in my culinary repertoire, a dish that I am always proud to present to family and friends.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover this delicious recipe, I am reminded of all the other wonderful dishes that I have learned to make over the years. From my mother's hearty beef stew to my grandmother's famous apple pie, each recipe holds a special place in my heart and in my kitchen.

I have always believed that cooking is a form of art, a way to express creativity and love through food. Each recipe tells a story, a story of where it came from, who shared it with me, and the memories that are associated with it. The recipe for asparagus-ham rolls is no exception, and every time I make it, I am transported back to that sunny day at Margaret's cottage by the sea, savoring the taste of summer and friendship.

In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, there is something comforting and grounding about cooking the recipes that have been passed down through generations. They connect us to our past, to our loved ones, and to the simple pleasures of sharing a meal together. And so, as I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I am grateful for the recipes that have shaped me into the cook and the person that I am today. And I will always cherish the memory of that fateful day when I first laid eyes on the recipe for asparagus-ham rolls, a dish that has brought me so much joy and inspiration.

Categories

| Asparagus Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Cheese Recipes | Ham Recipes |

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