Asparagus with Creamy White Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 bunch Asparagus (About 1 pound, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 4 tablespoons Butter
• 4 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 2 cups Milk
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.125 teaspoon Ground nutmeg (Pinch)
• 4 slices Bread slices (For croustades (optional))
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil (For croustades (optional))

Instructions

1. 1Wash and trim the asparagus. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
2. 2Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Drain well.
3. 3In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
4. 4Add the drained asparagus to the white sauce and stir gently to coat. Heat through.
5. 5Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut out the center of each bread slice, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Brush both sides of the bread with olive oil. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. 6Serve the asparagus in white sauce hot, either on its own or in croustades.