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1
Holding an asparagus spear in both hands, bend the spear until it breaks naturally at the point where the spear becomes tough.
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2
Discard the tough end and repeat with the remaining asparagus.
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3
Cut the asparagus into 1-inch lengths.
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4
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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5
While the water heats, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat and cook the pancetta until the pancetta is almost crisp, about 5 minutes.
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6
Add the leek and saute until softened but not colored.
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7
Add the asparagus to the boiling water and cook until just tender, 3 to 4 minutes.
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8
Drain and add to the skillet.
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9
Season mixture with salt and pepper and toss to coat.
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10
Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately.
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11
Serve as a first course or as an entree with Eggs en Cocotte.
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12
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
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13
Rub the inside of 6 ramekins with the butter and then season with the thyme, distributing both equally amongst the ramekins.
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14
Add 2 eggs to each, season with salt and pepper.
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15
Place the ramekins in a baking dish, and pour water into the baking dish until it is halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
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16
Carefully place the baking dish in the pre-heated oven.
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17
Bake eggs for 15 minutes, or until set and golden on top.
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18
Eat and enjoy!