ASPARAGUS PEA MEDLEY

Asparagus Pea Medley image

Hurried hotesses will appreciate the make-ahead convenience of this casserole. A rich and creamy sauce beautifully coats asparagus and peas. -M. Joalyce Graham, Starke, Florida

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 55m

Yield 8-10 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

2 packages (10-1/2 ounces each) frozen cut asparagus
1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas, thawed
1 jar (8 ounces) sliced mushrooms, drained
1 jar (2 ounces) diced pimientos, drained
5 tablespoons butter, divided
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3/4 cup milk
1 jar (5 ounces) sharp American cheese spread
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup dry bread crumbs

Steps:

Cook asparagus according to package directions, omitting the salt. Drain, reserving 3/4 cup cooking liquid. Place asparagus in a greased 11x7-in. baking dish. Top with peas, mushrooms and pimientos; set aside., In a small saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually add milk and reserved cooking liquid. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat; add the cheese spread, salt and pepper; stir until blended. Pour over vegetables. Melt remaining butter; toss with bread crumbs. Sprinkle over cheese sauce., Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight. Or bake, uncovered, at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until bubbly. If refrigerated before baking, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes beforehand.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 167 calories, Fat 10g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 28mg cholesterol, Sodium 492mg sodium, Carbohydrate 13g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 7g protein.