Asparagus is a great spring vegetable that I like to incorporate in as many dishes as possible. If you need a dish to take to a Lenten dinner or are already planning Easter dinner, Asparagus Rice Casserole will be a hit.
Asparagus Rice Casserole
1 1/2 cup rice (uncooked)
3 cups vegetable broth (chicken is good too)
2 cups asparagus, cleaned and cut into bite size pieces
1/4 cup onion, chopped small
2 tsp. minced garlic
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
2 tbsp. butter, cubed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place rice, vegetable broth, asparagus, onion, garlic, salt and pepper in a greased 9 x 13 casserole dish and slightly stir to mix ingredients. Place cubed butter throughout the top, cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes. Remove from oven. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and bake uncovered for 5 more minutes or until cheese is bubbly. Serve hot.