Asparagus With Lemon-Basil Gouda Cheese Sauce

Ingredients

Directions

1. 1

   Place the asparagus in a microwave proof plate, sprinkle with salt water, use plastic wrap to cover, then reserve.

2. 2

   Combine the basil leaves, shallots, garlic, cayenne pepper and puree in a food blender.

3. 3

   In a non-stick pot place 2 tablespoons margarine, pureed basil leaves and cook briefly.

4. 4

   Add ¼-1/2 stock, bring to a boil, add lemon juice and salt to taste, add corn starch mixture and stir until smooth and very thick (no lumps), let cool for about a minute.

5. 5

   Cook the asparagus in the microwave for 3 to 3-1/2 minutes.

6. 6

   As the asparagus is being cooked in the microwave, add the egg yolks a little at a time to the sauce (with flame/burner turned off), blend, stirring with a whisk and make sure there are no lumps.

7. 7

   Remove the plastic wrap from the asparagus dish and discard the water.

8. 8

   Pour the sauce over the asparagus, sprinkle the grated cheese over the asparagus sauce.

9. 9

   Then place the plate under a broiler or in a toaster over for a minute or so in order for the cheese to melt.

10. 10

    Finally, sprinkle pine nuts and sun dried-tomatoes on top.

11. 11

    Serve and enjoy!

12. 12

    Note: Gouda is a mild cheese and Asiago is a stronger tasting cheese.