If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances fresh spring vegetables with rich, nutty cheeses, this Asparagus Pie with Swiss and Parmesan Cheese Recipe is an absolute delight to try. It’s a comforting yet elegant pie that brings together tender asparagus, creamy Swiss, and sharp Parmesan cheese in a flaky pie shell, making each bite a celebration of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, a light lunch, or a delightful dinner side, this pie offers a delicious way to enjoy the freshness of asparagus paired with luscious, melty cheese goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect savory pie. The asparagus adds a crisp, green sweetness, the cheeses provide depth and creaminess, and the eggs and milk bind everything together into a tender, satisfying filling.
- Pie shell (1 unbaked, 9-inch): Acts as the buttery, flaky base that holds all the delicious filling.
- Fresh asparagus (1 lb, trimmed and cut): Offers a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to gently sauté the asparagus, enhancing its flavor without overwhelming it.
- Shredded Swiss cheese (1/2 cup): Provides a mild, creamy, and slightly nutty flavor that melts beautifully.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, savory punch that complements the Swiss perfectly.
- Large eggs (3, beaten): Bind the filling together for that classic pie texture.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Lightens the custard mixture for a silky finish.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the savory flavors.
- Ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat and depth to the filling.
How to Make Asparagus Pie with Swiss and Parmesan Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready once your pie is assembled, helping the crust bake to golden perfection as the filling cooks evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Asparagus
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the trimmed asparagus pieces for about 3 to 5 minutes until they become tender but still have a bit of bite. This quick cook locks in their fresh flavor and vibrant color. Once done, set them aside to cool before assembling the pie.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl until fully combined. Then stir in both the shredded Swiss cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, folding gently but thoroughly to ensure every bite is flavorful and rich. This custard-like mixture will set beautifully within the pie shell.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spread the cooked asparagus evenly over the unbaked 9-inch pie shell, creating a lush, green layer. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the asparagus, letting it fill in between the vegetable pieces and coat the base evenly for a perfect filling-to-crust ratio.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is set firmly and the top turns a beautiful light golden color, signaling that the cheeses are melted and bubbling just right.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool for a few minutes after baking; this helps everything set properly, making it easier to slice without the filling spilling out. Now, slice and get ready to enjoy the wonderful harmony of flavors you’ve created!
How to Serve Asparagus Pie with Swiss and Parmesan Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like chives, parsley, or tarragon over the top to introduce a fresh, aromatic note that enhances the earthy asparagus and cheesy filling beautifully. A light dusting of extra Parmesan just before serving makes it look as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or a vibrant tomato salad to add brightness and acidity. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted potatoes or grilled chicken for a balanced, satisfying plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch spread, cut the pie into small squares and arrange them on a platter garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. You can also serve individual mini pies using tartlet shells for a fun, elegant twist perfect for parties or entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover pie tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it an easy option for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the fully cooled pie tightly with aluminum foil and then place it inside a freezer-safe container or bag. The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing too much in texture or flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps the crust crisp, unlike microwaving, which can make it soggy. If using a microwave in a pinch, heat it on low power and in short intervals.
FAQs
Can I use frozen asparagus for this pie?
While fresh asparagus offers the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen asparagus as a substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the pie soggy.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
This Asparagus Pie with Swiss and Parmesan Cheese Recipe is already vegetarian as it contains no meat. However, to ensure it’s suitable for your preferences, check that your cheese does not use animal rennet.
Can I substitute the cheeses?
Absolutely! If you want a different flavor profile, try swapping Swiss for Gruyère or mozzarella, and Parmesan for Pecorino Romano. These cheeses will still melt nicely and complement the asparagus.
How do I know when the pie is fully cooked?
The filling should be firm to the touch and not jiggle when you gently shake the pie. Additionally, the edges and top will turn a lovely golden brown, signaling the cheeses have melted and the eggs are set.
Can I prepare this pie in advance for a gathering?
Definitely! You can assemble the pie a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated, then bake it just before your event. This saves time and ensures it’s fresh and warm when served.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to give this Asparagus Pie with Swiss and Parmesan Cheese Recipe a try in your own kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that feels both special and comforting — perfect for showcasing spring produce or treating yourself any time of year. Once you bake it, the beautiful combination of tender asparagus with creamy, nutty cheese makes it impossible not to fall in love at first bite. Enjoy every slice!
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Asparagus Pie with Swiss and Parmesan Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Pie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This savory Asparagus Pie is a delightful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender asparagus cooked in olive oil, combined with a creamy blend of Swiss and Parmesan cheeses, eggs, and milk, all baked to perfection in a flaky 9-inch pie crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, it serves 6 and offers a delicious way to enjoy fresh asparagus with a rich, cheesy custard filling.
Ingredients
Pie Shell
- 1 (9-inch) pie shell, unbaked
Filling
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the pie.
- Cook Asparagus: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the trimmed and cut asparagus pieces and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until they are tender. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, salt, and ground black pepper until well combined. Then stir in the shredded Swiss cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to incorporate the cheesy flavors.
- Assemble Pie: Spread the cooled cooked asparagus evenly over the unbaked pie shell. Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the asparagus to fill the pie shell.
- Bake the Pie: Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is fully set and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: After baking, let the pie cool for a few minutes to set further, then slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make sure the asparagus is cooked until just tender for the best texture.
- Allow the cooked asparagus to cool slightly before adding the egg mixture to prevent scrambling.
- You can substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère for a nuttier flavor.
- Use a store-bought pie crust to save time, or prepare your favorite homemade crust.
- If desired, add a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture for added warmth.
