Sautéed Asparagus with Toasted Almonds and Manchego Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This sautéed asparagus dish combines tender green spears with rich browned butter, crunchy toasted almonds, and nutty Manchego cheese. It’s a simple yet elegant side that’s perfect for spring or any time you want a fresh vegetable with a gourmet touch.
Ingredients
- 36 asparagus spears
- 140g unsalted butter
- 100g whole blanched almonds
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 50g best-quality Manchego cheese (or vegetarian hard cheese)
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a pan of salted water to a boil. Plunge in the asparagus spears and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and keep warm.
- Step 2: Place the butter and almonds in a cold pan. Gently heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and begins to foam. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the lemon juice to stop the cooking process.
- Step 4: Arrange the asparagus on serving plates. Spoon the browned butter and toasted almonds over the top.
- Step 5: Use a vegetable peeler to shave the Manchego cheese over the asparagus. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, substitute toasted pine nuts or simply omit the almonds and increase the cheese slightly.
- Try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes to the browned butter for a subtle heat.
- Use vegetarian hard cheese alternatives if you prefer to avoid animal rennet in Manchego.
Storage
Store leftover sautéed asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to preserve texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving to prevent the butter from separating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
While fresh asparagus yields the best texture and flavor, frozen asparagus can be used in a pinch. Thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for Manchego cheese?
If Manchego is unavailable, try other firm, nutty cheeses like aged Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or a vegetarian hard cheese to maintain similar flavor and texture.
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Sautéed Asparagus with Toasted Almonds and Manchego Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This elegant and simple recipe features tender sautéed asparagus spears complemented by toasted almonds and rich Manchego cheese. The asparagus is briefly boiled to retain its crispness, then topped with nutty brown butter infused with lemon juice for a bright finish. A sprinkle of shaved Manchego adds a creamy, savory contrast, making it a perfect side dish or light appetizer.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 36 asparagus spears
Dairy and Nuts
- 140g unsalted butter
- 100g whole blanched almonds
- 50g best-quality Manchego cheese (or vegetarian hard cheese)
Other
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt (for boiling water)
Instructions
- Blanch the asparagus: Bring a large pan of salted water to a rolling boil, then plunge in the asparagus spears. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain the asparagus well, then keep them warm while you prepare the sauce.
- Prepare brown butter with almonds: Place the butter and whole blanched almonds into a cold pan. Gradually heat over medium heat, carefully watching the butter so it doesn’t burn. Once the butter starts to turn golden brown and foam, immediately remove the pan from heat to prevent overcooking.
- Add lemon juice to brown butter: Pour in the lemon juice into the browned butter and almonds off the heat. This stops the cooking process and adds a fresh, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the butter.
- Assemble and serve: Arrange the warm asparagus onto six individual serving plates. Spoon the fragrant brown butter and toasted almonds evenly over the asparagus. Using a vegetable peeler, shave the Manchego cheese thinly and scatter over each plate. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Choose fresh asparagus with firm stalks for the best texture.
- Watch the butter carefully during browning to avoid burning, which would give a bitter taste.
- If vegetarian hard cheese is preferred, ensure it complements the nuts and asparagus flavor.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
- For a nut-free variation, omit almonds and use toasted breadcrumbs instead.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
Keywords: asparagus, brown butter, toasted almonds, Manchego, sautéed asparagus, easy side dish, Spanish recipe
