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
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the asparagus evenly and achieving a crisp topping.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.