Ingredients:
1/2 cup fat-free half-and-half or low-fat milk (instead of heavy whipping cream)
2 bunches asparagus, trimmed
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (reduced-fat or fat-free)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Baking Dish:
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, pour the fat-free half-and-half or low-fat milk into the bottom.
Arrange the Asparagus:
Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears in the dish, making sure they are spread out evenly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the asparagus.
Top with the grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the asparagus is tender.
Serve:
Serve hot and enjoy as a delicious side dish.
Weight Watchers Points:
Total Recipe Points:
This recipe is approximately 4-5 WW points per serving based on the use of reduced-fat cheeses and fat-free half-and-half.
Serving Size:
Each serving is approximately 1/4 of the dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: ~150
Protein: ~10g
Fat: ~8g
Total Carbohydrates: ~8g
Fiber: ~4g
Sugar: ~4g
Tips and Benefits:
Low-Point Swap:
By using fat-free half-and-half or low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheeses, you maintain the creamy texture while reducing the overall points and calories.
Nutrient-Rich:
Asparagus is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber, which are essential for good health.
Versatile Side Dish:
This cheesy baked asparagus pairs well with a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile and flavorful addition to your meal.
Customizable:
Feel free to add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
This Cheesy Baked Asparagus recipe is not only delicious but also fits into your Weight Watchers plan with ease. Enjoy the cheesy goodness guilt-free!