Smoky Brie Asparagus Fans
Tender asparagus arranged in decorative fans, topped with creamy Brie, aged Manchego and Spanish smoked paprika. A quick broiled side dish with French and Spanish flavours that works especially well for spring gatherings.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Kitchen Knife
- large saucepan
- slotted spoon
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 24 thin asparagus spears trimmed
- 120 g Brie cheese rind removed and cut into 4 slices
- 30 g aged Manchego cheese finely grated
- ½ teaspoon Spanish smoked sweet paprika
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler to high.
- Position the oven rack approximately 15 cm below the heat source.
- Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil.
- Add the asparagus.
- Cook for 2 minutes, or until bright green and just tender.
- Drain the asparagus in a colander.
- Rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Pat the asparagus dry.
- Arrange the asparagus on a baking sheet in 4 groups of 6 spears.
- Place the bottom ends together and spread the tips outward to form fans.
- Lay 1 slice of Brie across the centre of each asparagus fan.
- Sprinkle the grated Manchego evenly over the asparagus and Brie.
- Dust each portion with Spanish smoked paprika.
- Drizzle with the extra-virgin olive oil.
- Place the baking sheet under the broiler.
- Broil for approximately 1 minute, or until the Brie has melted.
- Watch closely and remove the asparagus before the cheese begins to brown.
- Transfer each asparagus fan carefully to an individual plate.
- Serve immediately.
Notes & Wine Advice
Serving Suggestions
Serve each asparagus fan immediately as an elegant appetizer or side dish. It pairs well with grilled fish, roasted chicken, crusty bread or a fresh tomato salad.Recipe Notes
Use thin asparagus spears so they become tender during the brief cooking time. Pat them dry before adding the cheese because excess water can dilute the flavour and make the finished dish watery. Watch the cheese constantly under the broiler.Variations
Replace the Brie with Camembert or goat cheese. Parmesan can replace Manchego when preferred. Add lemon zest, chopped walnuts or a few drops of balsamic glaze immediately before serving.Storage
This dish is best served immediately. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat briefly under the broiler, but expect the asparagus to become softer than when freshly prepared.Wine Advice
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the asparagus and balances the creamy Brie. A dry Spanish Albariño is another suitable choice for the Manchego and smoked paprika.Nutrition values
Serving: 1 asparagus fan | Calories: 170 kcal | Carbohydrates: 5 g | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 14 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Sodium: 260 mg | Sugar: 2 g