Asparagus Au Gratin - cooking recipe

Ingredients

20 asparagus spears (about 1 1/2 lb.)
1 c. fresh bread crumbs
1/2 c. mild cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 tsp. salt (may be less or omitted)
1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper
pinch of ground thyme
1 tsp. chopped parsley
2 tsp. olive oil
3 tsp. unsalted butter cut into small pieces
1/4 lb. shredded Mozzarella cheese or mild cheddar

Preparation

Preheat oven to 425\u00b0.
Break off tough ends of asparagus and boil or steam in the usual manner until bright green but still a bit firm.
Do not overcook.
Drain well.
Cut in 3/4 inch lengths. In a lightly buttered medium gratin dish, place asparagus with bread crumbs, cheese, seasonings, parsley and olive oil.
Dot with butter.
Bake until the asparagus is heated through, 6-8 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle with Mozzarella and place under broiler until cheese just melts.
Do not overcook cheese.
Cheddar is safer.
Good with hot crab meat casserole.