3.) Asparagus Gratin

Ingredients

• 1 large shallot
• finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 slices white bread
• 2 lbs asparagus
• trimmed
• 34 teaspoon salt
• 14 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• lemon wedge (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. In 1-quart saucepan, cook shallot in 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-low heat until golden, about 6 minutes.
3. Remove saucepan from heat; cool slightly.
4. Tear bread into small crumbs.
5. Spread crumbs on jelly-roll pan and bake 3 to 6 minutes until golden.
6. In 12-inch skillet, heat 1 inch water to boiling over high heat.
7. Add asparagus and 1/2 teaspoon salt; heat to boiling.
8. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, 5 to 10 minutes until asparagus spears are tender; drain.
9. Place asparagus in shallow, broiler-safe dish; drizzle with 2 teaspoons olive oil.
10. Preheat broiler if manufacturer directs.
11. In medium bowl, toss bread crumbs with Parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon juice, shallot mixture, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
12. Sprinkle bread-crumb mixture over asparagus.
13. Place dish in broiler 5 inches from source of heat; broil about 3 minutes or until lightly browned.
14. Transfer to platter to serve, if you like.
15. Serve with lemon wedges.