Lemon Roasted Asparagus Gratin - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs asparagus spears, trimmed
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest, grated
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 pinch salt
1 cup coarse fresh breadcrumb
1 1 cup old cheddar cheese or 1 cup gouda cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed

Preparation

Preheat oven to 425\u00b0F Spread asparagus even in a 13x9-inch glass baking dish.
In a small bowl, mash together butter, garlic, lemon zest, pepper and salt. Drop in small dots over asparagus spears in a baking dish. Roast for about 15 minutes, shaking dish haflway to coat asparagus in butter, or until asparagus is just tender-crisp and starting to brown.
Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, cheese and lemon juice; sprinkle over asparagus and bake for about 3 minutes or until cheese is melted. Broil 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
COOKING TIP: In place of asparagus, substitute 6 cups broccoli and/or cauliflower florets or 1 lb. trimmed green beans. Increase roasting time to 25 minutes.