Description
Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are a fun, flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious veggie. Coated in a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, then baked until golden and crisp, these sticks make a perfect side dish or appetizer. They’re simple to prepare and pack a satisfying crunch without the need for frying.
Ingredients
1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
2 eggs
1 tbsp water
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the asparagus: Rinse and trim the woody ends off the asparagus. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2️⃣ Set up the dredging station: In one shallow dish, place the flour. In a second dish, whisk together the eggs and water. In a third dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
3️⃣ Bread the asparagus: Dredge each asparagus spear in the flour, then dip in the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
4️⃣ Arrange for baking: Place the coated asparagus sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with a bit of olive oil.
5️⃣ Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and crisp, and the asparagus is tender.
6️⃣ Serve warm: Serve immediately with a dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for extra flavor.
Notes
For extra crispiness, use a wire rack on your baking sheet to allow heat to circulate under the asparagus. You can swap panko for regular breadcrumbs if needed, though panko yields a crunchier texture. This recipe is also easy to double for larger crowds.