Here’s a healthy alternative to asparagus smothered in Hollandaise Sauce and it’s every bit as satisfying. Try it with your favorite protein or as a side with a pasta entree.

Asparagus with Parmesan and Toasted Almonds

Makes 6 Servings

 Ingredients:

  • 11⁄2 lbs           asparagus
  • 1⁄4 cup            sliced blanched almonds       
  • 2 tbsp              butter  
  • 2                     cloves garlic, finely chopped 
  • 1⁄4 cup            freshly grated Parmesan cheese      
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

1. Snap off asparagus ends; cut spears on the diagonal into 2-inch lengths. In a large nonstick skillet, bring 1⁄2 cup water to a boil. Blanch asparagus for 2 minutes (start timing when water returns to a boil) or until just tender-crisp. Run under cold water to chill; drain and reserve.

2. Dry the skillet and place over medium heat. Add almonds and toast, stirring often, for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden. Remove and reserve.

3. Increase heat to medium-high. Add butter to skillet; cook asparagus and garlic, stirring for 2 to 3 minutes or until asparagus is just tender.

4. Sprinkle with Parmesan; season with salt and pepper. Transfer to serving bowl; top with almonds.

 

Variation:

Make this dish with green beans. Trim and cut into 11⁄2-inch (4 cm) lengths and cook in boiling water for about 5 minutes or until tender-crisp.

Excerpted from 500 Best Comfort Food Recipes by Johanna Burkhard © 2010 Robert Rose Inc. www.robertrose.ca Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved.

Click here to purchase this week’s cookbook: 500 Comfort Food Recipes by Johanna Burkhand

 

Questions? Contact:

Martine Quibell

Manager, Publicity

Robert Rose Inc.

120 Eglinton Avenue East, Suite 800

Toronto, Ontario   M4P 1E2

Phone 416-322-6552 x 3133

Fax 416-322-6936 

mquibell@robertrose.ca