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Asparagus with Lemon Parmesan Breadcrumbs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 70 reviews
  • Author: Elina
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 17 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This easy roasted asparagus recipe is topped with a zesty lemon Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, creating a perfect balance of crunchy texture and bright flavors. Ideal as a side dish, it combines tender asparagus spears with a flavorful crust that enhances any meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Asparagus

  • 1 pound (500g) asparagus spears, trimmed
  • cooking spray

Lemon Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping

  • 1/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 teaspoons lemon rind, grated
  • 1 teaspoon canola oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Finishing

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the asparagus evenly and achieving a crisp topping.
  2. Prepare breadcrumb mixture: In a bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs), grated Parmesan cheese, grated lemon rind, canola oil, black pepper, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful, evenly coated topping.
  3. Roast asparagus: Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears on a foil-lined baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes to soften them slightly.
  4. Add breadcrumb topping and continue baking: Sprinkle the prepared breadcrumb mixture evenly over the partially roasted asparagus. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 4 minutes, allowing the topping to crisp and turn golden brown.
  5. Finish with lemon and butter: Remove the baking sheet from the oven, then drizzle the asparagus with fresh lemon juice and melted unsalted butter to add moisture and a bright citrus flavor before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh asparagus and trim the woody ends before cooking.
  • You can substitute Panko with regular breadcrumbs if unavailable, though Panko provides a crunchier texture.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
  • For a dairy-free option, omit Parmesan and butter, or use plant-based alternatives.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the crispness of the breadcrumb topping.