Saucy Ham & Asparagus
You may find this recipe becomes a staple for special brunches and lunches because it’s nice enough for company but simple to prepare.
Prep Time:
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 24 asparagus spears
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese, divided
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 pasteurized egg yolk or equivalent amount of egg substitute
- 24 thin slices cooked ham
Directions
Preheat broiler.
Arrange asparagus in an 11- x 7-inch microwave-safe dish. Add 2 tablespoons water. Cover with plastic wrap. Micro- wave until crisp-tender, about 2 to 5 minutes; drain. Let stand to cool slightly.
Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Add milk gradually, whisking continually. Cook, stirring continually, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Turn off heat. Add 3/4 cup Swiss, nutmeg, black pepper and cayenne pepper and whisk until cheese is melted. Stir in egg yolk.
Wrap a ham slice tightly around each asparagus spear. Arrange in a single layer in a 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Pour sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with remaining Swiss. Broil 6 inches from heat until bubbly and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
Secret Tip
If you're pressed for time, try using good-quality canned asparagus. Rinse it before using. The taste and texture make an acceptable substitute for fresh asparagus.
