Description
This delightful recipe features tender sautéed asparagus spears paired with rich browned butter, toasted almonds, and sharp Manchego cheese. A simple yet elegant dish that balances fresh, nutty, and tangy flavors, perfect as a sophisticated side or light appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 36 asparagus spears
Dairy
- 140g unsalted butter
- 50g best-quality Manchego cheese (or vegetarian hard cheese)
Nuts & Citrus
- 100g whole blanched almonds
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Blanch the asparagus: Bring a large pan of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the asparagus spears and cook them for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain the asparagus and set aside, keeping them warm to preserve their color and texture.
- Prepare brown butter and toast almonds: Place the unsalted butter and whole blanched almonds into a cold pan. Slowly heat the pan over medium heat, carefully watching to prevent the butter from burning. When the butter turns a golden brown color and begins to foam, immediately remove the pan from heat. Pour in the fresh lemon juice to halt cooking and add a vibrant tang.
- Assemble and serve: Arrange the blanched asparagus evenly onto six serving plates. Spoon the warm browned butter and toasted almonds generously over the asparagus. Using a vegetable peeler, shave the Manchego cheese thinly and scatter it over the dish. Serve immediately for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Be sure to watch the butter carefully during heating to prevent it from burning, as brown butter adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice to brighten and balance the richness of the brown butter.
- You may substitute Manchego cheese with a similar hard cheese suitable to your dietary preference, such as vegetarian Parmesan.
- This dish is best served warm to enjoy the contrast of textures and flavors at their peak.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
Keywords: asparagus recipe, brown butter asparagus, toasted almonds, Manchego cheese, Spanish side dish, sautéed asparagus, easy vegetable recipes, vegetarian side
