Asparagus With Lemon Basil Gouda Cheese Sauce Recipe

Ingredients for Asparagus With Lemon Basil Gouda Cheese Sauce

• Fresh Asparagus
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• Shallot
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
• 2 tablespoons margarine
• Chicken Stock
• Cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup grated Gouda cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• Sun Dried Tomatoes Packed In Oil

How to Make Asparagus With Lemon Basil Gouda Cheese Sauce

1. Preheat your oven's broiler.
2. Trim the asparagus and place in a microwave-safe dish. Add 1/4 cup of water with a pinch of salt, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave on high for 3-3.5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
3. While the asparagus cooks, combine basil, shallots, garlic, and cayenne pepper in a food processor or blender and puree until smooth.
4. In a small saucepan, melt margarine over medium heat. Add the basil puree and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in the stock and bring to a simmer. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt to taste.
6. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Remove the asparagus from the microwave and discard the water.
8. Temper the egg yolks by slowly whisking a spoonful of the hot sauce into the yolks. Then, whisk the yolk mixture back into the remaining sauce until smooth and creamy.
9. Pour the sauce over the asparagus and sprinkle with grated Gouda cheese.
10. Broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Garnish with toasted pine nuts and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
12. Serve immediately and enjoy!