Asparagus With Lemon-Basil Gouda Cheese Sauce

🌱🧀🍋 Asparagus With Lemon-Basil Gouda Cheese Sauce 🍋🧀🌱

What is it?
Asparagus With Lemon-Basil Gouda Cheese Sauce is a delectable and savory side dish that combines tender asparagus spears with a creamy and flavorful cheese sauce. The sauce is made with Gouda cheese, which has a mild, nutty flavor, and is complemented by the bright and zesty notes of lemon and basil. It’s a dish that celebrates the vibrant taste of asparagus and enhances it with the rich, cheesy sauce.

History:
The history of this specific dish is not well-documented, but asparagus has been enjoyed as a delicacy for centuries. Asparagus is known to have been cultivated by the ancient Greeks and Romans. It gained popularity in European cuisine during the 16th century and later made its way to the Americas. The addition of Gouda cheese, lemon, and basil likely comes from the creative fusion of flavors in modern cuisine.

Components:

• Fresh asparagus spears
• Gouda cheese
• Lemon
• Fresh basil
• Butter
• Flour
• Milk
• Salt and pepper

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Asparagus:

   • Wash and trim the tough ends of the asparagus.
   • Optionally, blanch the asparagus in boiling water for a few minutes until it’s tender-crisp. Then, shock it in an ice water bath to retain its bright green color.

2. Make the Lemon-Basil Gouda Cheese Sauce:

   • Melt a few tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
   • Add 2-3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Stir constantly for a couple of minutes to cook the flour.
   • Gradually whisk in 1 to 1.5 cups of milk until the mixture thickens.
   • Reduce the heat to low and stir in freshly grated Gouda cheese until it’s melted and smooth.
   • Add the juice and zest of a lemon for a zesty twist.
   • Chiffonade fresh basil leaves and stir them into the sauce.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Dish:

   • Arrange the blanched asparagus on a serving plate.
   • Pour the warm Lemon-Basil Gouda Cheese Sauce over the asparagus.

4. Serve:

   • Garnish with extra basil leaves or lemon zest for a burst of color and flavor.
   • Serve your Asparagus With Lemon-Basil Gouda Cheese Sauce as a side dish to complement your main course.

Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare this dish will depend on your cooking skills and the quantity you’re making. On average, it can take approximately 30-40 minutes. This includes washing and trimming the asparagus, preparing the sauce, and blanching the asparagus. It’s a delightful side dish for special occasions or as an everyday treat. Enjoy! 🍽️👩‍🍳🧀🍋🌿

🥦🧀🍋 Asparagus With Lemon-Basil Gouda Cheese Sauce – Nutrition Facts and Health Information 🍋🧀🥦

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 200-250 calories per serving, depending on portion size and the amount of cheese sauce used.

• Protein: Asparagus is a good source of plant-based protein, providing about 2-3 grams per serving. The Gouda cheese adds a bit more protein.

• Carbohydrates: The asparagus and sauce contribute to the carbohydrate content. You can expect around 10-15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

• Dietary Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, offering around 3-4 grams per serving. Fiber is important for digestive health.

• Fat: The Gouda cheese sauce contains fat, and you’ll find approximately 15-20 grams of fat in this dish. The type of fat in cheese is mostly saturated fat.

• Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, folate, and various B vitamins. It’s also a good source of minerals like potassium.

• Calcium: Gouda cheese contributes calcium to the dish, which is essential for bone health.

• Sodium: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you add extra salt. The cheese and any added salt can increase the sodium levels.

Health Information:

• Asparagus Benefits: Asparagus is low in calories and a good source of dietary fiber, making it a healthy choice for weight management and digestive health. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin K, which is important for bone health and blood clotting. Additionally, it provides antioxidants and is associated with reduced risk of chronic diseases.

• Gouda Cheese: While cheese is delicious and a good source of calcium and protein, it’s also high in saturated fat and sodium. Therefore, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Choose low-sodium options when possible.

• Lemon and Basil: The lemon and basil in this dish contribute a burst of flavor without adding many calories or unhealthy components. Lemon provides vitamin C, an antioxidant, while basil adds freshness and aroma to the dish.

• Portion Control: To keep the dish healthful, be mindful of portion sizes, especially the amount of cheese sauce you use. While this dish is a delicious treat, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

• Personalization: You can adapt this recipe to suit your dietary preferences. If you’re looking to reduce calories, consider using a lower-fat cheese or reducing the amount of sauce. You can also adjust the level of salt to meet your dietary needs.

Remember that the nutrition facts and health information can vary depending on your specific ingredients and portion sizes, so it’s always a good idea to calculate them based on your recipe’s specific details if you have particular dietary concerns or goals. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful dish! 🌿🍋🧀🥦🍽️