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Crispy Savory Roasted Garlic Asparagus with Parmesan Breadcrumbs

roasted garlic asparagus - featured image

A quick and easy roasted asparagus side dish featuring tender asparagus topped with crispy toasted Parmesan breadcrumbs and savory roasted garlic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 grams)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (about 60 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Trim the asparagus by bending each stalk until it snaps naturally at its woody end; discard the bottom inch or two.
  3. In a mixing bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  4. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and lemon zest if using; set aside.
  5. Heat a small skillet over medium heat and toast the breadcrumb mixture, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  6. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
  7. Roast the asparagus in the oven for 12-15 minutes, turning once halfway through, until tender but still crisp with slightly browned tips.
  8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the toasted Parmesan breadcrumbs evenly over the asparagus.
  9. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 3-4 minutes to melt the cheese into the breadcrumbs and crisp the topping.
  10. Serve warm, optionally adding a final sprinkle of salt or red pepper flakes.

Notes

Toast breadcrumbs separately to keep them crispy and avoid sogginess. Use high heat (425°F) to roast asparagus for a tender yet crisp texture. Optionally add lemon zest or red pepper flakes for brightness and heat. For vegan or dairy-free versions, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use vegan breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: asparagus, roasted asparagus, garlic asparagus, Parmesan breadcrumbs, easy side dish, quick asparagus recipe, savory asparagus