Delicious Creamy Baked Asparagus Recipe
Welcome to my recipe blog, where I share easy and healthy recipes for those who want to maintain a balanced and wholesome diet. Today, I present you my latest creation: Easy Creamy Baked Asparagus (Gluten Free) Recipe that is perfect for adding some color to your plate, and delight your taste buds.
Asparagus is one of the most nutritious vegetables you can eat, containing high levels of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, vitamin C, folate, and potassium. It’s also low in calories which makes it an excellent addition to any diet. This recipe takes advantage of the nutritional benefits of asparagus while combining them with a delicious dairy-free cream sauce that will satisfy your cravings without sacrificing your health goals.
Not only is this recipe gluten-free but it is also dairy-free and vegan-friendly. Do not underestimate its simplicity because despite having only five ingredients, it still brings out the best in asparagus making it a crowd favorite side dish that is perfect for any occasion.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to learn how to make this creamy baked asparagus dish that will make you forget all about boring vegetables!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Listen up, y’all! I’m about to introduce you to the easy creamy baked asparagus recipe that will become a staple on your dinner table. And let me tell you why you’re going to love it!
First of all, this recipe is gluten-free so you can indulge in its savory flavors even if you’re on a restricted diet. It’s also dairy-free and vegan-friendly because I want everyone to enjoy this flavorful side dish without any limitations.
Now, let’s talk about taste. The combination of juicy asparagus spears and creamy Italian seasoning sauce, topped with parmesan cheese, will leave your taste buds in pure ecstasy. It’s like biting into a juicy burst of sunshine that will make your heart and tummy happy.
And the best part? This cheesy roasted asparagus recipe takes only 20 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes in the oven before it’s ready to be devoured! Yes, you heard me right – only 35 minutes separates you from mouth-watering, cheesy baked asparagus goodness.
But wait, there’s more! This recipe is also versatile. You can substitute the asparagus with fresh green beans, broccoli or cauliflower florets. You can also experiment with different cheese toppings or add cooked chicken for some extra protein.
In conclusion: if you’re looking for an easy make-ahead dish that is fuelled with flavor, nutrients and easy on your waistline, look no further than this creamy baked asparagus recipe. It’s simple ingredients teamed up together in perfect harmony will take your side dish game to the next level!
Ingredient List
Before we dive into making the Easy Creamy Baked Asparagus, let’s take note of the simple but flavorful ingredients we’ll need. You’ll only need 5 ingredients for this recipe, but each packs a tasteful punch. Here are the ingredients to prepare:
- 1 lb asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups dairy-free cream (coconut milk is recommended)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Italian seasoning, for flavor (optional)
Note that the creamy base for this dish is made up of dairy-free cream with a coconut milk base. Vegan and dairy-free asparagus dishes can be just as tasty as regular ones, especially when paired with ingredients that bring out their flavors.
The Recipe How-To
Ah, it’s time to get our hands dirty! Don’t worry, this recipe is incredibly easy, with only five ingredients and 20 minutes. You’ll have a delicious gluten-free side dish that will add some green color to your plate in no time.
Necessary Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to make this creamy asparagus recipe:
- 1 lb asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups dairy-free cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Add the asparagus spears to a 2-quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus.
- Mince three cloves of garlic and add them to the dish.
- Season with salt and pepper, according to your taste.
- Pour 2 cups of dairy-free cream over the asparagus mixture in baking dish.
- Use a spoon or spatula to gently stir the mixture so that everything is coated evenly.
- Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until asparagus is tender and cheese is golden brown.
Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure perfect results, keep these tips in mind:
- If you like roasted asparagus better than baked one, you can roast it first for about 8 – 10 minutes then proceed with step number 3 by sprinkling Parmesan cheese.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- If you are looking for a dairy-free alternative to Parmesan cheese, try nutritional yeast instead.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the asparagus is hot
Now that your easy creamy baked asparagus is done, it’s time to serve and enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re looking to switch up the flavors or ingredients of this creamy baked asparagus recipe, there are plenty of variations you can try. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
– Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, simply swap out the cream and parmesan for non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk and nutritional yeast. You can also use a vegan cream cheese if you’d like.
– Low Carb: If you’re on a low-carb diet, this recipe is already a great option, but you can reduce the carbs even further by omitting the breadcrumbs and using a low-carb gluten-free flour instead.
– Cheesy Asparagus Gratin: For extra cheesiness, sprinkle some gruyere cheese over the top of the asparagus before baking. This will give your dish a deliciously gooey texture and flavor that’s perfect for any cheese lover.
– Lemon Pepper Asparagus: For a bright and zesty variation, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the asparagus and sprinkle with lemon pepper seasoning before baking. This will add a lovely citrusy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
– Italian Asparagus Bake: Add some Italian seasoning (oregano, thyme) to your cream sauce and use mozzarella instead of Parmesan to create an Italian flair for your asparagus casserole.
These are just a few ideas to help you customize this easy creamy baked asparagus recipe to your liking. You can also play around with different herbs, spices, and cheeses to create your own unique version of this delicious side dish. Whatever variation you choose, it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser!
Serving and Pairing
Now, let’s talk about how to serve and pair this delicious creamy baked asparagus dish. First off, this versatile side dish goes well with almost any main course whether it be chicken, fish, or beef. It even pairs naturally with other springtime vegetables such as peas or carrots.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with roasted cherry tomatoes or a lemony cream sauce. The bright acidity of the tomatoes and lemon paired with creamy asparagus makes for a flavor explosion in your mouth! Alternatively, if you want to add a bit of texture, I recommend adding chopped nuts such as almonds, walnuts or pecans to the dish before serving.
If you’re looking for a low-carb option to accompany your meal, then this gluten-free and dairy-free baked asparagus recipe is perfect for you! Not only is it low in carbs and high in fiber due to the hearty green asparagus stalks but also full of nutrients such as vitamins A, C and E along with iron.
So why not add some color and texture to your plate with this simple yet elegant dish? It’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Got some leftover creamy baked asparagus? Don’t worry; this dish is always ready for an encore! Since it’s such a cinch to prepare, you can easily make a big batch in advance and store it in the fridge for later use.
To make ahead, follow the recipe directions until step four. Instead of baking, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake it, simply remove the dish from the fridge, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C), and top with additional cheese (if desired) before baking for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
If you have leftovers after serving, transfer the asparagus into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheating is easy: microwave on high or heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through. You may want to add a little bit of water or cream sauce to keep the asparagus from drying out.
This dish is not freezer-friendly, so it’s best to only keep leftovers in the fridge. But trust me; once you taste this cheesy and creamy asparagus casserole, there’s no chance that there will be any leftovers at all!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making an easy creamy baked asparagus dish, there are a few tips that can make all the difference in its flavor and texture. Here are some tips that I have gathered from my experience of cooking this recipe multiple times.
First and foremost, it’s important to use fresh asparagus for this recipe. Fresh asparagus has the perfect texture and flavor to go with the cream sauce, and it also adds a pop of bright green color to the dish. When buying asparagus, look for stalks that are firm, straight and have tight heads.
The next tip is about preparing the asparagus. Be sure to wash and trim off the ends of the asparagus before baking. The tough woody ends can make the asparagus unenjoyable, so snap off about 1-2 inches from the bottom of each stalk.
To ensure even cooking of the asparagus spears, try to select stalks that are similar in size. If you have different sized stalks, you may end up with unevenly cooked asparagus when they are all baked together.
When mixing the cream sauce, it is essential to use a high-quality dairy-free or vegan cream cheese for those who prefer dairy-free/vegan options. You can also use coconut milk or cream for a twist on traditional cream sauce.
It’s recommended that you lightly oil or spray your baking dish before placing the coated asparagus in it. This step will prevent sticking and make cleaning up easier after you’re done.
Lastly, be mindful of your oven temperature settings during baking time. Make sure your oven is preheated at 425F for 15-20 minutes before cooking the dish. Cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on your oven type and altitude; so keep an eye on it during the last five minutes to avoid overcooking.
With these simple tips in hand, you’ll be able to serve up a perfect and delicious asparagus recipe with ease.
Bottom Line
Wow, that was quite the journey! I hope you enjoyed learning about my easy creamy baked asparagus recipe, and that you feel inspired to try it out for yourself. With simple ingredients and just 20 minutes of cook time, this dish is a quick and delicious addition to any meal.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free side dish for your next dinner party, or a dairy-free option to supplement your vegan lifestyle, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. And with substitutions and variations aplenty, there’s no limit to the ways you can customize this dish to suit your tastes.
So go ahead and give this recipe a try! You won’t regret it. And if you’re feeling extra creative, try adding in different flavor profiles like lemon or Gruyere cheese to take this dish to the next level. The possibilities are endless!
And remember, cooking healthy organic, gluten-free and dairy-free recipes doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a little know-how and a lot of passion, anyone can create delicious meals that nourish both body and soul. So get in the kitchen, experiment and have fun!
Easy Creamy Baked Asparagus (Gluten Free) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus spear, trimmed
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup coarsely crushed gluten-free cracker (about 12)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook asparagus in large skillet of simmering water 2 to 3 minutes, or until bright green , but still crisp;drain.
- Toss asparagus with dressing in 1-1/2 to 2 quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle with cheese and cracker crumbs.
- Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until cheese is lightly browned and mixture is heated through.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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