Description: These crispy parmesan asparagus sticks are a delightful and easy-to-make snack or side dish. Tender asparagus spears are coated in a flavorful parmesan-breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection. They’re a healthier alternative to fries and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus spears, trimmed (about 1 pound)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Dipping sauce of your choice (ranch, aioli, marinara)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the asparagus sticks from sticking and make cleanup easier. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the asparagus by washing and trimming the ends. To trim asparagus, snap off the tough ends where the spear naturally breaks. This will ensure you’re only using the tender parts of the asparagus.
Step 3: Set up three shallow bowls for the breading process. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs lightly with a fork. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and optional black pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure the flavor is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Now, bread the asparagus spears. Take one asparagus spear at a time and dredge it in the flour, making sure to coat it completely. Tap off any excess flour to prevent the breading from becoming too thick. Next, dip the floured asparagus spear into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, roll the egg-dipped asparagus spear in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere. Place the breaded asparagus spear on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process until all the asparagus spears are breaded.
Step 5: Arrange the breaded asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded so that they bake evenly and become crispy. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. Turn the asparagus spears halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking and browning.
Step 6: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the crispy parmesan asparagus sticks cool slightly before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth and allow the breading to set a bit.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First, it transforms a simple vegetable into a delicious and craveable snack or side dish. The crispy parmesan coating adds a savory, cheesy flavor that perfectly complements the tender asparagus. It’s also incredibly easy and quick to make, requiring minimal prep time and only a short baking time. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you need a last-minute appetizer for a gathering. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies into your diet, especially for those who aren’t typically fans of asparagus. Kids and adults alike will love the crispy texture and flavorful coating, making it a family-friendly dish. Finally, it’s versatile! Serve it as a side with chicken, fish, or steak, or enjoy it as a standalone snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as a snack or appetizer with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing, aioli, marinara sauce, or honey mustard.
- Serve as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, or a juicy steak.
- Add them to a salad for extra crunch and flavor.
- Serve them as part of a veggie platter with other dipping options.
- Get creative and use them as a topping for burgers or sandwiches.
Tips:
- For extra crispy asparagus, use a generous amount of panko breadcrumbs and press them firmly onto the asparagus spears.
- Make sure to trim the tough ends of the asparagus spears to ensure they are tender and easy to eat.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will prevent the asparagus from getting crispy.
- If you want to add a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as Romano or Asiago, for a different flavor profile.
- To prevent the breadcrumbs from burning, you can broil the asparagus for the last minute or two of cooking, but watch them closely!
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving, approximate)
- Calories: Approximately 180 kcal
- Protein: 9 grams
- Sodium: 450mg (This can vary based on the amount of salt used and the type of parmesan cheese.)
Conclusion:
Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are a delicious, easy, and healthy way to enjoy this vibrant vegetable. The combination of tender asparagus and a crispy, cheesy coating makes for an irresistible dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a simple side dish, or a way to sneak in some extra veggies, this recipe is a perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a batch of these amazing asparagus sticks!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko breadcrumbs?
A: While you can use regular breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for this recipe. Panko breadcrumbs are coarser and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, which results in a much crispier coating. If you only have regular breadcrumbs on hand, you can still use them, but be aware that the texture will be slightly different. You might also want to toast them lightly in a dry skillet before using them to enhance their crispiness.
Q2: Can I make these asparagus sticks ahead of time?
A: It’s best to enjoy these Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks fresh out of the oven for the best texture and flavor. If you need to prepare them in advance, you can bread the asparagus spears ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours. However, keep in mind that the breadcrumbs may become slightly soggy. When you’re ready to bake, simply place them on the baking sheet and bake as directed. Reheating them in the oven or air fryer can help to restore some of their crispiness.
Q3: Can I air fry these instead of baking them?
A: Yes, you can definitely air fry these Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks! Air frying is a great alternative to baking because it results in an even crispier coating and requires less cooking time. To air fry them, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the breaded asparagus spears in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
Q4: I don’t have garlic powder. Is there anything else I can use?
A: If you don’t have garlic powder, you can substitute it with other seasonings or spices. Onion powder is a good alternative, as it provides a similar savory flavor. You can also use a pinch of dried Italian herbs or even a clove of minced garlic. If using minced garlic, be sure to mix it well with the breadcrumb mixture to ensure it is evenly distributed.
Q5: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: While this recipe is specifically for asparagus, you can certainly adapt it to include other vegetables. Broccoli florets, green beans, or even carrot sticks would all work well with the parmesan-breadcrumb coating. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different vegetables may require different cooking times to become tender.
