Roasted Asparagus With Smoky Gouda Cheese Sauce

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Roasted Asparagus With Smoky Gouda Cheese SauceAsparagus is a versatile vegetable that pairs well with a variety of flavors, but when you add a smoky Gouda cheese sauce, it transforms into a truly extraordinary dish. This recipe for Roasted Asparagus With Smoky Gouda Cheese Sauce is perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight meal. The creamy, smoky flavor of the Gouda cheese sauce complements the tender, roasted asparagus, creating a dish that is both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Asparagus:

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced

For the Smoky Gouda Cheese Sauce:

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Roasted Asparagus:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus and trim the woody ends. Lay them out on a baking sheet.
  3. Season the Asparagus: Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus, then sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. Toss to ensure even coating.
  4. Roast the Asparagus: Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly browned. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Making the Smoky Gouda Cheese Sauce:

  1. Heat the Milk: In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until just simmering. Do not let it boil.
  2. Make the Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly.
  3. Add the Milk: Slowly pour the warm milk into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
  4. Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded smoked Gouda cheese, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving:

  1. Plate the Asparagus: Arrange the roasted asparagus on a serving platter.
  2. Pour the Cheese Sauce: Drizzle the smoky Gouda cheese sauce over the asparagus. Garnish with a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips and Variations

  • Alternate Cheeses: If smoked Gouda is not available, try using a combination of regular Gouda and a touch of smoked paprika to achieve a similar flavor.
  • Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
  • Additional Toppings: Sprinkle some toasted almonds or crispy bacon bits over the top for added texture and flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the milk and cheese with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese for a lactose-free version.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g

Conclusion

This recipe for Roasted Asparagus With Smoky Gouda Cheese Sauce is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The creamy, smoky cheese sauce perfectly complements the crisp, roasted asparagus, making it an irresistible dish that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or the star of the meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

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