You may have noticed a certain "spike" in asparagus recipes lately. Well, what can I say? It's spring, and the asparagus around here has been looking too lovely not to use. Besides, it's Earth Day, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious casserole brightened with bunches of this beautiful green vegetable.

I don't always blanch asparagus before cooking with it, especially if I'm grilling or roasting it. But, in this recipe the quick dip in boiling water is necessary to lock in that beautiful green color, so it remains vibrant even after 30 minutes of baking. This casserole recipe is also a perfect way to use up that leftover chicken. Enjoy!

For more asparagus recipes and ideas, check out:
Check out About's Cooking for Two's beautiful asparagus recipe photo gallery.
6 more of my favorite spring asparagus recipes.

Photo © John Mitzewich