Asparagus with Blue Cheese

Asparagus with Blue Cheese Recipe - Flavorful and Healthy Dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Asparagus with Blue Cheese is a delightful dish that combines the fresh, green taste of asparagus with the rich, tangy flavor of blue cheese. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life and are looking for a sophisticated yet simple side dish to complement any meal. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a delicious way to enjoy asparagus, this recipe is sure to impress.

History

The combination of asparagus and blue cheese has been enjoyed for decades, if not centuries. Asparagus has been a prized vegetable since ancient times, appreciated for its unique flavor and supposed health benefits. Blue cheese, with its bold taste and creamy texture, has been a favorite among cheese lovers for many years. The marriage of these two ingredients in this recipe represents a modern twist on classic flavors, creating a dish that is both timeless and contemporary.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of cleaned and tough ends trimmed asparagus
2 tsp of red wine vinegar
2 tbsp of olive oil
2 tbsp of minced chives
4 tbsp of crumbled blue cheese
1 tsp of freshly ground white pepper

How to prepare

Snap the ends off the asparagus spears.
Fill a medium skillet with 1 inch of water and bring it to a boil.
Add the asparagus in a single layer and cook for 10 minutes.
Drain the asparagus well and arrange it on a serving plate.
In a small bowl, stir together the vinegar and oil.
Add the blue cheese and chives, and mix well. Then pour the mixture over the hot asparagus.
Season with white pepper.
Set it aside until it becomes tepid, then serve.

Variations

For those looking to experiment, consider adding toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture, or drizzle with balsamic reduction for a sweet and tangy flavor contrast. For a vegan version, substitute the blue cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a vegan-friendly vinegar.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Asparagus with Blue Cheese turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh asparagus for the best flavor and texture. Look for bright green stalks with tightly closed tips.

- When trimming the asparagus, bend the stalk gently until it snaps naturally. This will remove the tough, woody part.

- To keep the asparagus vibrant green, consider blanching it quickly in boiling water, then plunging it into ice water before draining and serving.

- For a smoother sauce, you can gently melt the blue cheese with the olive oil over low heat before adding the vinegar and chives.

Serving Suggestions

Asparagus with Blue Cheese can be served as a sophisticated side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red wine.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is blanching the asparagus to achieve the perfect tender-crisp texture. Additionally, gently combining the blue cheese with the olive oil and vinegar without overmixing allows the flavors to meld beautifully while retaining the cheese's texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If blue cheese is too strong for your taste, you can substitute it with feta cheese or goat cheese for a milder flavor. Red wine vinegar can also be replaced with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a different acidic note.

Make Ahead Tips

The asparagus can be blanched ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The blue cheese dressing can also be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Simply assemble the dish before serving for a quick and easy side.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the asparagus on a platter and drizzle the blue cheese mixture over the top for a rustic yet elegant presentation. Garnish with additional minced chives or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for added color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of wines. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the flavors of the asparagus and blue cheese without overpowering them. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Asparagus with Blue Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the asparagus soggy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Asparagus with Blue Cheese contains approximately 150 calories, making it a light yet satisfying side dish that can fit into a variety of meal plans.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the asparagus itself. One serving of Asparagus with Blue Cheese contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come primarily from the olive oil and blue cheese. Olive oil is a healthy monounsaturated fat, while blue cheese contains both saturated and unsaturated fats. In total, one serving of this dish contains about 10 grams of fat, with a balance of healthy fats contributing to its rich flavor and satisfying texture.

Proteins

Asparagus with Blue Cheese is not a high-protein dish, but it does offer a modest amount. One serving provides approximately 4 grams of protein, coming from both the asparagus and the blue cheese.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the asparagus, which is rich in vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6, as well as folate, iron, copper, calcium, protein, and fiber. Blue cheese adds additional calcium and phosphorus, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are dairy (from the blue cheese) and potential allergens in the olive oil, depending on the brand and processing. Those with dairy allergies or sensitivities should avoid this dish or consider a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Summary

Overall, Asparagus with Blue Cheese is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. It's low in carbohydrates and calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful side dish without overindulging.

Summary

Asparagus with Blue Cheese is a classic dish that combines the fresh, green taste of asparagus with the rich, tangy flavor of blue cheese. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was during a trip to France with my husband, many years ago. We were dining at a quaint little bistro in Paris, and I ordered the most delicious asparagus dish I had ever tasted. The asparagus was perfectly cooked and drizzled with a creamy blue cheese sauce that was simply divine. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it myself.

I asked the waiter for the recipe, but he kindly explained that it was a secret family recipe handed down through the generations. Disappointed, but determined, I made a mental note to try and recreate the dish at home.

When we returned from our trip, I immediately set to work in the kitchen. I researched countless recipes and experimented with different combinations of ingredients until I finally came up with a version that was close to the one I had enjoyed in Paris. It wasn't perfect, but it was pretty darn close.

Over the years, I continued to refine the recipe, tweaking it here and there until it was just right. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about it and begged me to make it for every special occasion.

One summer, my dear friend Martha invited me to a cooking class at a local culinary school. The class was focused on French cuisine, and as luck would have it, one of the dishes we learned to make was asparagus with blue cheese. I was thrilled to learn some new tips and techniques from the chef, and I was even more excited to share my own version of the recipe with the class.

As I cooked alongside the other students, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in my ability to recreate a dish that had once seemed so elusive. The chef praised my technique and commended me on my flavor combinations, and I left the class feeling more confident in my culinary skills than ever before.

Since then, I have continued to make my asparagus with blue cheese recipe for countless dinner parties, holiday gatherings, and family meals. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that everyone looks forward to whenever they come to visit.

I have shared the recipe with anyone who has asked for it, and I have even taught my own grandchildren how to make it. They love helping me in the kitchen, stirring the sauce and sprinkling the cheese on top of the asparagus. It warms my heart to see them take an interest in cooking, just like I did all those years ago.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and people who have inspired me along the way. From that charming bistro in Paris to the culinary school kitchen, each step has brought me closer to perfecting a dish that brings joy and comfort to those I love.

So the next time you find yourself craving something delicious and comforting, why not give my asparagus with blue cheese recipe a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be inspired to create your own signature dish, just like I did. Happy cooking!