Ingredients

1 lb asparagus , trimmed
2 portabella mushrooms , cleaned
3 -4 tomatoes , quartered
olive oil , for drizzling
sea salt
1 whole clove
1 bay leaf
1 small onion
2 cups milk , I use skimmed
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard ( optional )
1 cup cream ( optional )
salt and pepper
Asparagus, Mushroom, and Tomato Bake with Seasoned Cheese Sauce is a delicious and healthy main dish that is perfect for any occasion. This dish is loaded with fresh veggies and topped with a savory cheese sauce that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. The combination of asparagus, mushrooms, and tomatoes makes this dish a great choice for vegetarians or anyone looking for a meatless meal option. The cheesy sauce adds a creamy texture that complements the vegetables perfectly. This is an easy dish to make, and it's perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend dinner party.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2.Place trimmed asparagus on a baking sheet. Cut portabella mushrooms into thin slices and place on top of asparagus. Add quartered tomatoes on top of mushrooms.
3.Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Mix gently to coat.
4.Bake for 20 minutes or until asparagus is tender and slightly browned.
5.In a small pot, heat milk with whole clove, bay leaf, and whole onion until boiling.
6.Remove pan from heat and let infuse for a few minutes with the lid on, then strain milk back into the original pot.
7.In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture turns a light brown color.
8.Add infused milk slowly, whisking constantly to get rid of any lumps. Continue to stir with a whisk until thickened and bubbly.
9.Remove from heat, and add cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, cream, salt, and pepper Stir until cheese is completely melted.
10.Spread seasoned cheese sauce on top of the asparagus, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly on top.

PROS

This dish is delicious, healthy, and easy to make.

Asparagus is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
It also contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and promote heart health.

Mushrooms are low in calories, high in protein, and full of nutrients, including B vitamins, copper, and selenium.

Tomatoes are loaded with vitamins, especially vitamin C, and antioxidants, which can help protect against cancer and other chronic diseases.

Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, which is essential for healthy bones.

CONS

This dish contains cheese, which is high in saturated fat and calories.
Therefore, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Some people may experience gas, bloating, or other digestive problems after eating asparagus.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is packed with nutrients and antioxidants that can help promote overall health.
Asparagus is loaded with fiber, which can promote digestive health and help prevent constipation. It is also a good source of folate, which is essential for fetal development during pregnancy.
Mushrooms contain beta-glucans, which have been shown to boost immune function and reduce inflammation.
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, which can help build and maintain healthy bones. It also contains probiotics, which may help improve gut health.

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