Asparagus Mornay
Nothing says comfort and elegance quite like a dish of creamy Asparagus Mornay. This classic recipe combines tender asparagus spears with a rich and cheesy Mornay sauce, creating a perfect side dish for any special occasion or cozy family dinner. The velvety sauce, made with a blend of Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses, enhances the natural flavors of the asparagus, making every bite a delightful experience. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of fresh asparagus
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pinch of nutmeg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Wash the asparagus spears and trim the tough ends. You can snap off the ends where they naturally break or use a knife to cut them.
3. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add the asparagus spears and blanch them for 2-3 minutes, until they are bright green and slightly tender. Remove the asparagus and immediately place them in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
4. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to make a roux.
5. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses until they are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
8. Arrange the blanched asparagus in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
9. Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus, ensuring that all the spears are coated evenly.
10. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the sauce for a crispy texture.
11. Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
12. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
13. Enjoy your Asparagus Mornay as a delightful side dish that will impress your guests or elevate any weeknight meal.
Serve this Asparagus Mornay alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete and satisfying dinner. The creamy cheese sauce and tender asparagus will surely become a family favorite in no time!
