Asparagus Milanese – A Classic Italian Delight
Asparagus Milanese, or Asparagi alla Milanese, is an elegant Italian dish that pairs the delicate flavors of fresh asparagus with the richness of cheese and eggs, creating a beautiful side dish or main course for your family or guests. The ingredients are simple yet flavorful, with a focus on fresh, quality asparagus, and a traditional cooking method that allows the dish to shine. Here’s a detailed guide to preparing this classic dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 4 |
| Grana Padano DOP (cheese) | 4 tbsp |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Asparagus | 600g |
| Butter | 15g |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Asparagus
Start by thoroughly washing the asparagus under cold running water. Make sure to remove any dirt or debris. Once clean, pat the asparagus dry with a towel. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the tough outer skins from the lower part of the stalks, leaving only the tender tips. Once peeled, gently tie the bunch of asparagus together using kitchen twine, creating a small bundle.
Step 2: Cooking the Asparagus
Next, prepare a tall, narrow pot or saucepan that will hold the asparagus vertically. The asparagus should be placed standing upright in the pot, with the tips facing upwards. This helps them cook evenly while keeping the tips tender and intact. Add a small amount of water, just enough to cover the bottom of the pot. Cover the pot and bring the water to a gentle simmer over low to medium heat. Cook the asparagus for around 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender but still vibrant in color. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Step 3: Preparing the Eggs and Grana Padano
While the asparagus is cooking, prepare the eggs. In a shallow pan, heat a small amount of butter over medium-low heat. Crack the eggs into the pan, arranging them in a circular pattern with the yolks at the center. Allow them to cook gently, ensuring the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. Once the eggs are nearly cooked through, sprinkle grated Grana Padano cheese over the top. Cover the pan for a few moments, just enough to melt the cheese without overcooking the eggs.
Step 4: Assembling the Dish
Once the asparagus is cooked and tender, remove them from the pot and arrange them on a serving platter. Carefully place the eggs with melted Grana Padano on top of the asparagus, ensuring each piece of asparagus is topped with a soft, cheesy egg. Season the dish with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serving
Serve the Asparagus Milanese while it is still warm, with the melted cheese and eggs oozing over the tender asparagus. This dish makes for a perfect side to a hearty meal or a light main course, especially during spring when asparagus is in season.
Tips for Success
- For best results, choose thick, fresh asparagus stalks that are vibrant green in color and have firm, crisp ends.
- The key to perfect Asparagus Milanese lies in the gentle cooking of the eggs. Be sure to cook them over low heat to avoid overcooking the yolks.
- If you want to elevate the dish further, try adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
With its rich and comforting flavors, Asparagus Milanese is a dish that will impress guests or bring a touch of Italian elegance to your everyday meals. It’s simple to prepare, but the combination of tender asparagus, creamy eggs, and savory Grana Padano makes it a true delight to enjoy.
