Crispy Parmesan Crusted Asparagus | Easy Side Dish
As the sun sets over the city, the smell of asparagus and Parmesan cheese fills the air. It invites you to the dinner table. Crispy Parmesan Crusted Asparagus is more than just a dish. It brings back memories of good times with family and friends.
This side dish is easy to make. It turns simple asparagus into a delicious treat.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Crispy Parmesan Crusted Asparagus is a tasty side dish or appetizer. It’s made with fresh asparagus, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
- This recipe is quick to make, taking only 20 minutes. It’s great for any meal, big or small.
- The dish has a crispy outside and a tender inside. It’s sure to wow your family and guests.
- You can enjoy Parmesan Crusted Asparagus with different dips. Try lemony sun-dried tomato aioli or lemon garlic mayo.
- This recipe is a healthy way to enjoy asparagus. It’s full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Why This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Asparagus Will Become Your Favorite Side Dish
Asparagus is full of vitamins and minerals. This Parmesan Crusted Asparagus recipe is a tasty way to add it to your meals. It’s perfect for special occasions or everyday dinners, and everyone will love it.
Health Benefits of Asparagus
Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, folate, and fiber. It’s low in calories and fat, making it great for healthy side dish ideas. It also has antioxidants that boost health and well-being.
Perfect for Special Occasions and Everyday Meals
The crispy, cheesy topping and quick prep make this easy asparagus recipes ideal for any event. It goes well with many main dishes. It’s perfect for holidays or a simple gluten-free side dishes option.
Quick and Easy Preparation
This Parmesan Crusted Asparagus recipe cooks in 15-25 minutes. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and steps. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you need a quick dish.
“This Parmesan Crusted Asparagus is a game-changer! The crispy, cheesy topping makes it irresistible, and the easy preparation makes it a must-try for any asparagus lover.”
Essential Ingredients and Equipment
To make the perfect parmesan crusted asparagus, you need a few key ingredients and tools. Let’s explore what you’ll need:
You’ll start with fresh, crisp asparagus spears. The recipe calls for about 1 pound, serving 3-4 people. You’ll also need freshly grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, eggs, and seasonings like garlic powder and black pepper.
You’ll need a 13- x 18-inch Half Sheet Pan for baking. You’ll also need bowls for dredging the asparagus in flour, egg, and parmesan-panko mixture. A wire rack helps drain the cooked asparagus.
For the dipping sauce, you’ll need mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. This sauce is zesty and creamy, perfect with the parmesan crust.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Asparagus | 1 pound |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Panko Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs, beaten | 2 |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Lemon Zest (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to make a tasty low-carb vegetable recipe. The crispy parmesan cheese recipe crust will be a hit with your family.
How to Select and Prepare Fresh Asparagus
Choosing the right asparagus is key to making tasty asparagus recipes and side dishes. Look for spears that are medium-thick, firm, straight, and have tightly closed tips. Stay away from limp, wilted, or thick, woody asparagus.
Choosing the Right Asparagus Thickness
Go for asparagus spears as thick as a pencil. Thicker spears need longer cooking, while thinner ones can get mushy. Medium-thickness spears cook evenly and stay crisp.
Proper Trimming Techniques
To prep the asparagus, trim the tough, woody ends. You can snap them off or use a knife. Cut off about 1-2 inches from each spear’s bottom.
Cleaning and Drying Methods
- Rinse the spears under cool, running water to remove dirt or debris.
- Pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towels. This helps them crisp up when roasted or baked.
- For easier handling, cut the spears in half crosswise if you like.
With the right asparagus and prep, you’ll make delicious recipes and side dishes everyone will enjoy.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Get ready to enjoy the crispy perfection of baked asparagus with a delightful Parmesan crust! Follow these easy steps for a delicious side dish that’s sure to impress.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
- Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with approximately ½ cup of all-purpose flour, another with 2 large whisked eggs, and the third with a mixture of 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 6 different spices (paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cayenne pepper).
- Gently coat each crispy baked asparagus spear in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally, roll it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Arrange the coated asparagus spears on a 21-inch by 15-inch sheet pan that has been lightly greased with 1.5 teaspoons of olive oil.
- Lightly spray the coated asparagus with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake the baked asparagus for approximately 10 minutes, turning the spears once halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Alternatively, you can shallow-fry the asparagus for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.
With these simple steps, you’ll have a delectable side dish that’s perfect for special occasions and everyday meals. Enjoy your crispy Parmesan-crusted baked asparagus!
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings |
Serving Suggestions and Complementary Sauces
The Parmesan Crusted Asparagus is great as a side dish, hot or at room temperature. Try it with a creamy lemony sun-dried tomato aioli or a zesty lemon garlic mayo sauce. These dips add flavor and make the asparagus even more delicious.
Lemony Sun-Dried Tomato Aioli Recipe
To make the aioli, mix mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. This creamy sauce balances the asparagus’s rich parmesan crust perfectly.
Pairing Recommendations
The Parmesan Crusted Asparagus goes well with grilled meats, seafood, or as a vegetarian dish. It’s perfect for any meal, adding flavor to your plate. Enjoy it with your favorite entrees or as a snack.
Storage Tips
For the best taste and texture, eat the asparagus fresh. But, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days. Reheat it in the oven to make it crispy again.
FAQ
What is Parmesan Crusted Asparagus?
Parmesan Crusted Asparagus is a tasty side dish or appetizer. It’s asparagus spears coated with a mix of panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. This turns fresh asparagus into a crispy, golden dish with a tender inside.
What are the key ingredients in Parmesan Crusted Asparagus?
The main ingredients are fresh asparagus, parmesan cheese, and panko breadcrumbs. You also need eggs, flour, and seasonings like garlic powder and black pepper. Lemon zest is optional for extra flavor.
How long does it take to make Parmesan Crusted Asparagus?
This recipe is quick, ready in under 20 minutes. It’s great for both special events and everyday meals.
What equipment is needed to make Parmesan Crusted Asparagus?
You’ll need a baking sheet, bowls for dredging, and a wire rack for draining. For the dipping sauce, use mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes if you like.
How do I select and prepare the asparagus for this recipe?
Pick medium-thickness asparagus spears for the best results. Trim the tough ends, wash, and dry the spears. Cutting them in half makes them easier to handle and dip.
How do I cook the Parmesan Crusted Asparagus?
Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Prepare a dredging station with flour, eggs, and a mix of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, and seasonings. Coat each spear and place them on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, turning once, until crispy and golden.
What are some serving suggestions and complementary sauces for Parmesan Crusted Asparagus?
Serve the asparagus hot or at room temperature. Enjoy it with lemony sun-dried tomato aioli or lemon garlic mayo. It goes well with grilled meats, fish, or as a vegetarian option.
How can I store leftover Parmesan Crusted Asparagus?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to get crispy again. Best enjoyed fresh for the best taste and texture.
