Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake

Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake is a delicious and unique twist on a classic vegetable dish. The combination of asparagus and nacho cheese creates a flavorful and satisfying side dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

History

The origins of Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake are not well-documented, but it is likely that this recipe was created as a way to add some excitement to the traditional asparagus side dish. By adding nacho cheese and tortilla chips, this dish takes on a fun and playful twist that is perfect for a casual dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

3 cups of frozen asparagus cuts and tips, steamed
1 cup of nacho cheese sauce or dip
0.5 cup of crushed tortilla chips
0.5 cup of canned tomatoes, diced, or chopped seeded tomatoes
Non-stick cooking spray

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Cook the asparagus in a small amount of boiling water until it is just tender.
Gently combine the cooked asparagus with the cheese sauce.
Lightly spray vegetable spray in a 1.5 qt (1.42 liter) shallow casserole dish.
Pour the asparagus and cheese sauce into the dish and cover it with foil.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 20 minutes or until it is thoroughly heated.
Serve hot, garnished with tortilla chips and tomatoes.

Variations

For a spicier version of this dish, add some diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also add some cooked ground beef or chicken for a heartier meal.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When cooking the asparagus, be sure not to overcook it. Asparagus should be tender but still have a slight crunch to it. Overcooking can result in mushy asparagus that lacks flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake pairs well with grilled chicken or steak. It can also be served as a side dish with tacos or enchiladas.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the asparagus before combining it with the cheese sauce ensures that the asparagus is cooked through and tender. Baking the dish allows the flavors to meld together and creates a deliciously gooey and cheesy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have nacho cheese sauce, you can use shredded cheddar cheese instead. You can also use panko breadcrumbs in place of tortilla chips for a crunchy topping.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the asparagus and cheese sauce mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake the dish. Just be sure to add the tortilla chips and tomatoes right before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced avocado for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. A cold beer or a margarita would also be a great accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Asparagus is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber. The nacho cheese sauce adds calcium and vitamin D to the dish.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and gluten in the form of nacho cheese sauce and tortilla chips. It may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake is a flavorful and satisfying side dish that is relatively low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great way to add some excitement to your vegetable dishes.

Summary

Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake is a fun and flavorful twist on a classic vegetable dish. With its gooey cheese sauce and crunchy tortilla chip topping, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy it as a side dish or a main course for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake. It was a sunny afternoon, and I had just finished attending a cooking class at the local community center. As I was flipping through a cookbook that the instructor had recommended, I stumbled upon this unique and flavorful dish.

The recipe called for fresh asparagus spears, coated in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with crunchy nacho chips. I had never seen anything quite like it before, and I knew I had to give it a try. The combination of ingredients seemed odd at first, but something about it intrigued me.

I decided to make the Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake for my family that evening. As I gathered the ingredients and began to prepare the dish, memories of my childhood flooded back to me. I remembered how my own grandmother used to cook for our family, using recipes that had been passed down through generations.

My grandmother was a talented cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. She taught me the importance of using fresh, seasonal produce and cooking with love. I could still hear her voice in my head, guiding me as I worked on the Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake.

As the dish baked in the oven, the aroma of melted cheese and roasted asparagus filled the kitchen. My family gathered around the table, eager to taste the creation. The first bite was met with silence, then a chorus of approval. The flavors blended together perfectly, creating a dish that was both comforting and exciting.

From that day on, the Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake became a staple in our household. Whenever I made it, memories of that first time I tried the recipe came flooding back. I felt a sense of pride in being able to recreate something so delicious and unique.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, each time adding my own twist or variation. Some added extra cheese, others tossed in some diced tomatoes or jalapenos for a spicy kick. No matter how it was prepared, the Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake always brought smiles to the faces of those who tasted it.

As I grew older, I continued to explore new recipes and techniques, always keeping my grandmother's teachings in mind. I collected cookbooks from all over the world, trying out different cuisines and flavors. But no matter how many recipes I tried, the Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake remained a favorite.

I often wonder where the recipe originated from. Did it come from a cookbook, passed down from one family to another? Or was it created by a clever cook who wanted to experiment with new flavors? The mystery only added to the charm of the dish.

As I sit here, reflecting on all the memories I have created in the kitchen, I am grateful for the gift of cooking. It has brought me joy, comfort, and connection with those I love. And the Nacho Cheesy Asparagus Bake will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the magic that can come from trying something new and unexpected.