Asparagus Gratin...fancy and Good! |
|
 |
Prep Time: 15 Minutes Cook Time: 15 Minutes |
Ready In: 30 Minutes Servings: 4 |
|
No other vegetable signals spring like asparagus. In this recipe, it makes for a rich, creamy side dish that's beyond delicious. We love it with a simple roast chicken. Please note: this is an adopted recipe and I hope to make it soonest. If you make it before I do, I would appreciate feedback, Thanks . Ingredients:
2 lbs asparagus, trimmed and cut diagonally into 1 1/2-inch pieces |
2 tablespoons olive oil |
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into bits |
1/2 cup finely chopped shallot (about 2 large) |
4 slices firm white bread, cut into 1/4-inch pieces |
1/4 cup pine nuts (1 1/4 oz) |
1/4 teaspoon black pepper |
2 ounces finely grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese (1 cup) |
1/2 teaspoon salt |
1/2 cup mascarpone cheese |
Directions:
1. Butter a 2- to 2 1/2-quart shallow ceramic flameproof baking dish.
2. Cook asparagus in a 5- to 6-quart pot of boiling salted water, uncovered, until crisp-tender, about 4 minutes.
3. Drain in a colander, then transfer to baking dish and keep warm, tightly covered with foil.
4. Meanwhile, heat oil and butter in a 12-inch heavy skillet over high heat until foam subsides, then cook shallots, stirring occasionally, until pale golden, about 3 minutes.
5. Add bread and pine nuts and cook, stirring, until browned in spots, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and add pepper, 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, and 1/4 teaspoon salt, tossing to combine.
6. Preheat broiler.
7. Toss warm asparagus with mascarpone, remaining 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt until combined well.
8. Sprinkle bread-crumb mixture evenly over asparagus. Broil 5 to 7 inches from heat until topping is golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes.
|
|