Cheese and asparagus: the tastiest combinations
It’s almost that time again: asparagus season is just around the corner. From mid-April through June 24, all of the Netherlands goes wild for those gorgeous white spears (and rightly so). But did you know that cheese and asparagus are an absolute dream combination? Whether you go for white or green asparagus, the right cheese takes your dish to a whole new level. In this article, you’ll discover which cheeses pair best with asparagus, along with a few recipes that’ll have you licking your fingers.
The Dutch asparagus season
Every year between mid-April and June 24 (St. John’s Day) is a celebration for asparagus lovers. White asparagus from Limburg is the most beloved, but top-quality spears also come from Brabant and Gelderland. Green asparagus has a slightly longer availability and a bolder flavor. Both varieties deserve a place on your plate, and both call for cheese.
The best cheeses for white asparagus
White asparagus has a delicate, slightly bitter flavor. You want cheeses that enhance that subtlety without overpowering it. Here are our favorites:
- Parmigiano Reggiano – The king of cheeses is also king alongside white asparagus. Grate some over the top and its nutty, umami-rich flavor works wonders. Especially with oven-roasted asparagus, this is a match made in heaven.
- Grana Padano – A little milder than Parmigiano, but just as delicious with asparagus. Grana Padano melts beautifully into a cheese sauce and has a softer, creamier finish. Perfect if you want something a little more subtle.
- Mature Goudse kaas – A classic Dutch pairing. A good mature Gouda has enough character to hold its own next to asparagus while staying approachable. Ideal in a gratin.
The best cheeses for green asparagus
Green asparagus has a more robust flavor and can handle bolder companions. Here you can confidently reach for stronger cheeses:
- Pecorino – This Italian sheep’s milk cheese has a salty bite that pairs fantastically with grilled green asparagus. Use a cheese slicer to shave thin ribbons over the top and finish with a little lemon zest.
- Goat cheese – The fresh tang of goat cheese cuts beautifully through the earthy flavor of green asparagus. Crumble soft goat cheese over a warm asparagus salad and you have a starter that leaves guests speechless.
Recipe tips: asparagus with cheese
Asparagus with cheese sauce
Make a classic cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk and a generous handful of grated Grana Padano. Pour over cooked white asparagus and serve with ham and a soft-boiled egg. Simple, but unbeatable.
Gratinated asparagus
Place cooked white asparagus in an oven dish and wrap them in Parma ham if you like. Grate Parmigiano Reggiano generously over the top and place under the broiler until the cheese is golden and crispy. Ready in 10 minutes, impressive for the rest of the evening.
Green asparagus salad with pecorino
Grill green asparagus briefly in a hot grill pan. Arrange on a bed of arugula, shave thin slices of pecorino over the top and finish with pine nuts, a drizzle of good olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice. A salad that looks just as beautiful as it tastes.
The perfect cheese board for asparagus season
Hosting an asparagus dinner? Round it off with a beautiful cheese board. Combine Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino and a soft goat cheese with fig bread, walnuts and honey. A great way to turn a weeknight meal into something special.
Our top asparagus tips
- Buy asparagus as fresh as possible, ideally from a local farmer or market.
- White asparagus needs to be peeled; green asparagus doesn’t (just snap off the woody ends).
- Store cheese separately from the asparagus in the fridge, and take both out half an hour before serving.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: adding a piece of Parmigiano rind to the cooking water for your asparagus adds an extra layer of depth.
Asparagus season is short, so make the most of it. With the right cheese alongside, every bite is a celebration. Order your favorite cheeses below and make this season one to remember.
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