Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are a delightful way to enjoy vegetables with a satisfying crunch. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, these asparagus sticks are coated in a Parmesan and panko breadcrumb mixture, then baked to golden perfection. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor, making them a great addition to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Delicious: Asparagus is a nutrient-dense vegetable, and baking instead of frying keeps this dish light and healthy without sacrificing flavor.
- Crispy and Cheesy: The combination of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs creates a crunchy, cheesy coating that pairs perfectly with the tender asparagus.
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of baking, this dish is quick to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a last-minute appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed: Look for firm, bright green asparagus spears. Trim off the tough, woody ends.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the coating.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides a light, crispy texture.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: For a bit of spice and flavor depth.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Helps the coating adhere to the asparagus.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Drizzled over the asparagus to help crisp up the coating.
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the finished dish.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Asparagus
Wash the asparagus spears under cool water and pat them dry. Trim off the tough, woody ends of the asparagus. This usually involves cutting off about 1 to 2 inches from the bottom.
3. Set Up a Dredging Station
In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs until smooth.
4. Coat the Asparagus
Take each asparagus spear and dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Next, roll the asparagus in the Parmesan-panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Place the coated asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake
Drizzle or lightly spray the coated asparagus spears with olive oil. This will help them achieve a crispy, golden-brown finish. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the coating is golden and crispy.
6. Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the asparagus sticks with chopped fresh chives for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Asparagus: Thicker asparagus spears work best for this recipe as they hold up well under the coating and baking process.
- Even Coating: Make sure to press the panko mixture onto the asparagus spears firmly so it adheres well and creates a crispy crust.
- Use a Rack: For extra crispiness, you can place the asparagus on a wire rack set over the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the spears, ensuring even crisping.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version.
- Herbed Flavor: Mix in some dried Italian herbs like oregano or basil with the breadcrumb mixture for an added flavor dimension.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
FAQs
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko provides a lighter and crispier texture.
How should I store leftover asparagus sticks?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Can I make these asparagus sticks in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry these asparagus sticks at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
What can I serve with these asparagus sticks?
These asparagus sticks pair well with a variety of dips, such as ranch, aioli, or marinara sauce. They also make a great side dish for grilled meats, pasta dishes, or roasted chicken.
These Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy asparagus, and they’re sure to be a hit at your next meal or gathering!