Creative Recipes for Using Up Leftover Asiago Cheese

Creative Recipes for Using Up Leftover Asiago Cheese

Do you have some leftover Asiago cheese sitting in your fridge after a delicious meal or a cheese platter? Don't let it go to waste! Asiago cheese, with its nutty and slightly tangy flavor, can be used in a variety of creative recipes to add a rich and savory twist. In this post, we'll explore some innovative ways to use up that leftover Asiago cheese and elevate your dishes.

Understanding Asiago Cheese

Before we dive into the recipes, let's understand a bit more about Asiago cheese:

What is Asiago Cheese?

• Asiago is a cow's milk cheese that originates from the Asiago plateau in the Veneto region of Italy.
• It comes in two varieties: Asiago Pressato (young, mild, and creamy) and Asiago d'Allevo (aged, firm, and sharp).
• Asiago cheese has a distinct flavor profile, making it versatile for both cooking and snacking.

Creative Recipes Using Leftover Asiago Cheese

Now, let's explore some delicious recipes that will help you make the most of your leftover Asiago cheese:

1. Asiago Cheese and Herb Scones

These savory scones are perfect for breakfast or as a side dish for soups and salads.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or chives)
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the grated Asiago cheese and fresh herbs.
5. Slowly add the buttermilk and mix until just combined.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, pat into a circle, and cut into wedges.
7. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

2. Asiago and Mushroom Risotto

This creamy and comforting risotto is a great way to use up leftover Asiago cheese.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat the broth and keep it warm on low heat.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the onions and mushrooms in butter until softened.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for a few minutes until toasted.
4. Pour in the white wine and cook until absorbed.
5. Begin adding the warm broth a ladleful at a time, stirring constantly until the rice is creamy and al dente.
6. Stir in the grated Asiago cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve the risotto hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

3. Asiago and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Impress your dinner guests with this elegant and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, grated Asiago cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with the spinach and cheese mixture.
4. Secure the pockets with toothpicks.
5. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown.
6. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

4. Asiago and Prosciutto Crostini

These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for entertaining or as a quick snack.

Ingredients:

• Baguette, sliced
• Olive oil
• Thinly sliced prosciutto
• Grated Asiago cheese
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and toast in the oven until lightly golden.
3. Top each slice with a piece of prosciutto, grated Asiago cheese, and a basil leaf.
4. Return to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Tips for Storing and Using Asiago Cheese

To ensure the quality and safety of your Asiago cheese, here are some handy tips:

• Store Asiago cheese in the refrigerator in a sealed container or wrapped tightly in wax paper.
• If the cheese develops mold, trim off the affected area before using.
• Grate any leftover Asiago cheese and freeze it in an airtight bag for future use in recipes.

Conclusion

Leftover Asiago cheese can be a versatile ingredient in your kitchen, adding depth of flavor to a variety of dishes. With these creative recipes and storage tips, you can make the most of your leftover cheese and enjoy delicious meals with a cheesy twist. Don't let that Asiago cheese go to waste—get cooking and savor every bite!