Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Asparagus with Blue Cheese and Beef is an indulgent yet simple side dish that combines the earthiness of asparagus with the rich flavors of blue cheese and the savory depth of beef. It's oven-roasted to perfection, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare. This recipe is keto-friendly, low-carb, and gluten-free, making it a versatile option for various diets. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled meats, chicken bakes, or roasted dishes, this side will impress with its burst of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
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1 lb asparagus
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup blue cheese (crumbled)
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8 oz beef (thinly sliced and cooked)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Trim the woody ends of the asparagus and arrange them in a medium-sized baking dish.
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Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with minced garlic.
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Roast the asparagus for 15 minutes, uncovered.
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Remove the dish from the oven, then sprinkle the asparagus with crumbled blue cheese and the cooked beef slices.
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Return the dish to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the beef to warm through.
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Serve immediately while the cheese is still melted and delicious.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4 people
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 20 minutes
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Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Cheese options: Swap the blue cheese for gorgonzola or a milder cheese like goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
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Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of fragrance and flavor.
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Vegetarian: Omit the beef for a vegetarian version, or use plant-based protein as a substitute.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute blue cheese with gorgonzola, goat cheese, or even parmesan for a different flavor.
2. How do I prevent the asparagus from being too tough?
Trim the ends of the asparagus to remove the tough, woody part before roasting. You can also snap the stems naturally by bending them until they break.
3. Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
Fresh asparagus is preferred for its texture and flavor, but frozen asparagus can be used if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before roasting.
4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the asparagus and roast it up to the point before adding the cheese and beef. Cover and refrigerate, then add the cheese and beef before the final 5 minutes of roasting.
6. How do I know when the asparagus is done?
The asparagus should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite. It should also be lightly browned at the tips, indicating it’s roasted to perfection.
7. Can I use a different protein instead of beef?
Yes, you can use chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein as an alternative.
8. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
While roasting is the easiest method for achieving crispy asparagus, you can cook it in a skillet over medium heat. Just make sure to cook the asparagus in batches to avoid overcrowding.
9. How can I make the dish more filling?
Add roasted potatoes or quinoa on the side to turn this dish into a more substantial meal.
10. Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s not recommended to freeze asparagus with blue cheese and beef as the texture of the asparagus and cheese might change upon thawing.
Conclusion
Asparagus with Blue Cheese and Beef is a delectable side dish that’s sure to elevate any meal. Its simple preparation and bold flavors make it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering. Enjoy the crispy asparagus, rich cheese, and savory beef all in one bite!
Asparagus with Blue Cheese and Beef
Indulge in the delicious combination of Asparagus with Blue Cheese and Beef! This keto-friendly, gluten-free, and low-carb side dish is the perfect addition to any meal. Roasted asparagus pairs beautifully with the creamy tang of blue cheese and savory beef, creating a flavor-packed dish that's easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just preparing a family meal, this versatile recipe complements grilled meats, roasted chicken, and more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 lb asparagus
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup blue cheese (crumbled)
8 oz beef (thinly sliced and cooked)
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Trim the woody ends of the asparagus and arrange them in a medium-sized baking dish.
-
Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with minced garlic.
-
Roast the asparagus for 15 minutes, uncovered.
-
Remove the dish from the oven, then sprinkle the asparagus with crumbled blue cheese and the cooked beef slices.
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Return the dish to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the beef to warm through.
-
Serve immediately while the cheese is still melted and delicious.
Notes
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Cheese Variations: Swap blue cheese for gorgonzola, goat cheese, or even parmesan for a different flavor profile.
-
Herb Add-ins: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added for extra fragrance and flavor.
-
Vegetarian Option: Omit the beef or use plant-based protein as a substitute.
-
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.