By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on February 29, 2024 | Last Updated on February 29, 2024
Are you looking for a delectable and easy-to-make appetizer to impress your guests at the next gathering? Look no further than these savory asparagus bites. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
As someone who loves experimenting with flavors and creating delightful dishes, I have perfected this recipe to ensure it is not only delicious but also simple to make. Let me take you through the process of making these mouth-watering asparagus bites step by step.
I carefully selected each ingredient to ensure that they complement each other and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
The minced garlic offers a subtle yet aromatic flavor, and the black pepper and salt enhance the taste of the dish. The blanched asparagus spears add a fresh and crisp bite, which pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
The sliced white bread serves as a crunchy and flavorful base for the bites, while the blue cheese and mayo bring a tangy and sharp flavor profile. Finally, the beaten egg white and melted butter help bind everything together and create a deliciously crispy exterior when baked.
Ingredients:
- Crumbled blue cheese: I chose crumbled blue cheese because its bold and tangy flavor adds a distinctive kick to the asparagus bites, elevating their taste to a whole new level.
- Garlic clove, minced: Minced garlic clove to infuse a rich, aromatic essence into the bites, enhancing their overall savory profile.
- Sliced white bread: Sliced white bread to create a crisp and crunchy exterior for the bites, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.
- Asparagus spears, blanched: Asparagus spears for their tender texture and vibrant green color, ensuring each bite bursts with freshness.
- Butter, melted: Melted butter to impart a luscious richness to the bites, enhancing their indulgent appeal.
- Softened cream cheese, at room temperature: Softened cream cheese to create a creamy and luxurious filling that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
- Egg white, beaten: Beaten egg white as a binding agent to help hold the bites together and achieve a beautifully golden brown crust.
- Salt: Salt seasons the bites, balancing the flavors and enhancing their overall taste.
- Freshly ground black pepper: I added freshly ground black pepper for a subtle hint of warmth and spice, rounding out the flavor profile harmoniously.
- Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise creates a creamy and tangy dipping sauce that complements the asparagus bites perfectly, adding an extra layer of flavor.
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How to make Asparagus Bites?
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a medium baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Meanwhile, gather the ingredients: crumbled blue cheese, minced garlic, sliced white bread, blanched asparagus spears, melted butter, softened cream cheese, beaten egg white, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and mayo.
Step 2: Preparing the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with minced garlic, and season it with salt and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a flavorful cream cheese mixture.
Step 3: Assembling the Bites
Taking a slice of white bread, flatten it slightly with a rolling pin to make it easier to roll. Then, spread a thin layer of melted butter on each slice. Next, spread about 1/2 tablespoon of the prepared cream cheese mixture onto each slice of bread.
Step 4: Adding Asparagus
In the center of each bread slice, place a blanched asparagus spear. Then, roll the bread around the asparagus until the bread ends meet, creating a neat bundle. Once all the bites are assembled, brush the tops with beaten egg white for a golden finish.
Step 5: Baking the Bites
Place the assembled bites onto the prepared baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes,and the cream cheese is warmed through.
Step 6: Serving
Once baked to perfection, remove the asparagus bites from the oven and let them cool slightly. To serve, arrange them on a platter and serve with a side of mayo for dipping, if desired. These flavorful and elegant appetizers are ready to impress!
Recipe Notes:
- Cream Cheese: The softened cream cheese acts as a binding agent and adds a creamy texture to the filling. Make sure to bring it to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Asparagus: Blanching the asparagus spears before wrapping them in bread helps retain their vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Blue Cheese: The tangy and salty flavor of blue cheese pairs well with the richness of the other ingredients. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
Recipe Variations:
1. Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free bread or opt for gluten-free puff pastry instead of white bread for a gluten-free option.
2. Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the cream cheese mixture for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
3. Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese filling for a spicy variation.
4. Pesto Pizzazz: Spread a layer of basil pesto on the bread slices before adding the cream cheese mixture for a burst of herbaceous flavor.
5. Sweet and Savory: Drizzle the baked asparagus bites with honey or balsamic glaze for a delightful sweet and savory combination.
Asparagus Bites Recipe
Equipment
- baking dish
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 8 oz crumbled blue cheese
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 loaf sliced white bread
- 9 asparagus spears blanched
- 1 stick butter melted
- 5 oz. softened cream cheese at room temperature
- 1 egg white beaten
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 Tbsp mayonnaise
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing The Ingredients
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a medium baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Meanwhile, gather the ingredients: crumbled blue cheese, minced garlic, sliced white bread, blanched asparagus spears, melted butter, softened cream cheese, beaten egg white, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and mayo.
Step 2: Preparing The Cream Cheese Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with minced garlic, and season it with salt and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a flavorful cream cheese mixture.
Step 3: Assembling The Bites
- Taking a slice of white bread, flatten it slightly with a rolling pin to make it easier to roll. Then, spread a thin layer of melted butter on each slice. Next, spread about 1/2 tablespoon of the prepared cream cheese mixture onto each slice of bread.
Step 4: Adding Asparagus
- In the center of each bread slice, place a blanched asparagus spear. Then, roll the bread around the asparagus until the bread ends meet, creating a neat bundle. Once all the bites are assembled, brush the tops with beaten egg white for a golden finish.
Step 5: Baking The Bites
- Place the assembled bites onto the prepared baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes,and the cream cheese is warmed through.
Step 6: Serving
- Once baked to perfection, remove the asparagus bites from the oven and let them cool slightly. To serve, arrange them on a platter and serve with a side of mayo for dipping, if desired. These flavorful and elegant appetizers are ready to impress!
Notes
- Cream Cheese: The softened cream cheese acts as a binding agent and adds a creamy texture to the filling. Make sure to bring it to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Asparagus: Blanching the asparagus spears before wrapping them in bread helps retain their vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Blue Cheese: The tangy and salty flavor of blue cheese pairs well with the richness of the other ingredients. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I prepare the asparagus bites in advance?
A1: Yes, you can assemble the bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
Q2: Can I use frozen asparagus instead of blanched asparagus?
A2: While fresh blanched asparagus is recommended for best results, you can use thawed frozen asparagus in a pinch. Just make sure to pat them dry before wrapping them in bread.
Q3: How do I store leftover asparagus bites?
A3: Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Q4: Can I freeze the unbaked asparagus bites?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked bites on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q5: What can I serve with the asparagus bites?
A5: These bites are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Q6: Can I make a larger batch of these bites for a party?
A6: Absolutely! Simply double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch to feed a crowd. You can also customize the recipe by adding different fillings or toppings to cater to your guests’ preferences.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, these asparagus bites are a delightful appetizer that combines a medley of flavors and textures in each bite. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply craving a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy your palate.
By following the step-by-step instructions and experimenting with the suggested variations, you can create a personalized version of these bites that suits your taste preferences.
Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family to spread the joy of cooking and good food. Enjoy making and savoring these delicious asparagus bites!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
