Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 lrg onion minced
  • 12 ounce mushrooms minced
  • 6 ounce jamon serrano or possibly prosciutto minced
  • 1/4 tsp dry crushed red pepper
  • 2 1/2 c. crushed tomatoes in puree (about 3/4 of 28-oz can)
  • 12 ounce asparagus trimmed
  • 8 x Large eggs
  • 2/3 c. grated manchego or possibly Romano cheese (about 2 1/2 ounces) Fresh Italian parsley sprigs

Method

  • Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add in onion and saute/fry till translucent/soft, about 8 min.
  • Add in mushrooms and saute/fry till tender,
  • about 4 min.
  • Add in jamon and dry crushed red pepper and stir 1 minute.
  • Add in tomatoes.
  • Simmer till mix mounds on spoon, stirring frequently, about 10 min.
  • Season sauce with salt and pepper.
  • Cook asparagus in large pot of boiling salted water till just crisp-tender.
  • Drain.
  • Rinse under cool water and drain well.
  • (Can be prepared 1 day ahead.
  • Cover tomato sauce and asparagus separately and chill.
  • Bring to room temperature before using.)
  • Preheat oven to 400F.
  • Grease four, 5 to 6-inch-diameter shallow earthenware casseroles or possibly baking dishes with extra virgin olive oil.
  • Divide sauce among dishes.
  • Make large well in center of sauce in each dish.
  • Break 2 Large eggs into each well.
  • Sprinkle Large eggs with pepper and then cheese.
  • Arrange asparagus around edge of dishes.
  • Cover with foil.
  • Bake till Large eggs are almost set, about 12 min.
  • Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
  • Serves 4.