Parmesan crusted asparagus is a delicious dish from longhorn that features fresh asparagus coated in a crispy parmesan crust. This recipe combines the natural flavors of asparagus with the savory taste of parmesan cheese, creating a delightful side dish or appetizer.
The asparagus is first coated in a mixture of grated parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then baked until golden and crispy. The result is a perfectly cooked asparagus with a satisfying crunch and a burst of cheesy goodness. Whether you’re a fan of asparagus or looking to add some variety to your vegetable dishes, this parmesan crusted asparagus longhorn recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients For Parmesan Crusted Asparagus Longhorn
Looking to add a new twist to your asparagus recipe? Try this parmesan crusted asparagus longhorn dish that brings a delicious crunch and tangy flavors to the table. With just a few key ingredients, you’ll have a mouthwatering side dish that will impress your family or guests.
Let’s dive into the ingredients needed to make this tantalizing dish.
- Fresh asparagus spears: The star of this recipe, fresh asparagus spears provide a crispy texture and vibrant green color. Choose spears that are firm and bright green without any signs of wilting or discoloration. Trim the ends of the asparagus for even cooking.
- Parmesan cheese: Wonderfully creamy and pungent, parmesan cheese adds a rich and savory taste to the dish. Grated parmesan cheese will adhere to the asparagus spears perfectly, creating an irresistibly crispy crust when baked.
- Panko bread crumbs: Panko bread crumbs bring a light and airy texture to the parmesan crust. Their larger, flakier crumbs create a delightful crunch that complements the tender asparagus.
- Lemon zest: Fresh lemon zest is essential for brightening up the flavors of the dish. The citrusy notes add a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the cheese and bread crumbs.
- Garlic powder: A pinch of garlic powder elevates the dish with its distinct flavor. It imparts a subtle hint of garlic without overpowering the other ingredients, enhancing the overall taste profile.
- Olive oil: Olive oil is the perfect choice for roasting the asparagus to perfection. Its mild, fruity undertones complement the flavors of the dish and help in achieving the desired crispiness in the crust.
- Salt and pepper: Seasoning with salt and pepper is crucial to enhance the natural flavors of the asparagus and tie all the ingredients together. A sprinkle of salt and a dash of freshly ground black pepper bring balance and depth to the dish.
These simple ingredients work together harmoniously to create a parmesan crusted asparagus longhorn that is bursting with flavor and texture. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this delectable side dish that will leave you craving more.
Step-By-Step Instructions For Making Parmesan Crusted Asparagus Longhorn
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish, look no further than parmesan crusted asparagus longhorn. This recipe combines the goodness of fresh asparagus with a crispy and savory parmesan crust for a flavor-packed dish. Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create this mouthwatering treat.
Preparing The Asparagus Spears
Before you begin, it’s important to select the freshest asparagus spears for the best flavor and texture. Here’s how to prepare the asparagus:
- Selecting the freshest asparagus:
- Choose asparagus spears that are bright green in color and firm to the touch.
- Look for stalks that are not wilted or shriveled.
- Avoid asparagus spears with slimy or discolored tips.
Trimming And Cleaning The Spears
Once you’ve chosen the perfect asparagus, it’s time to trim and clean the spears:
- Hold an asparagus spear at both ends and gently bend it until it breaks naturally.
- Discard the tough woody end of the spear.
- Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
Creating The Parmesan Crust Mixture
The parmesan crust is what takes this dish to the next level. Here’s how to make it:
- Combining parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, and lemon zest:
- In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese, 1 cup of panko bread crumbs, and the zest of one lemon.
- Use a fork or your fingers to ensure the ingredients are evenly combined.
Seasoning With Garlic Powder, Salt, And Pepper
To add an extra kick of flavor, season the parmesan crust mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper:
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper into the mixture.
- Stir well to distribute the seasonings throughout.
Coating The Asparagus In The Parmesan Crust
Once your asparagus and parmesan crust mixture are ready, it’s time to coat the asparagus in the delicious crust:
- Drizzling the asparagus with olive oil:
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the asparagus spears.
- Hand-rolling the asparagus spears in the parmesan crust mixture:
- Roll each asparagus spear in the parmesan crust mixture, ensuring it is well coated on all sides.
- Gently press the crust mixture onto the asparagus to adhere.
Baking The Parmesan Crusted Asparagus Longhorn
Now that your asparagus is nicely coated, it’s time to bake it to crispy perfection:
- Preheating the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°f (220°c).
- Arranging the coated asparagus on a baking sheet:
- Place the coated asparagus spears in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Make sure to leave space between each spear for even cooking.
- Baking until crispy and golden:
- Bake the asparagus in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and golden.
- Keep a close eye on the asparagus to prevent burning.
With these simple steps, you can whip up parmesan crusted asparagus longhorn that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds. Enjoy this tasty dish as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a light and healthy snack. Happy cooking!
Tips And Variations For Parmesan Crusted Asparagus Longhorn
Adding a zesty twist with lemon juice:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus longhorns just before baking for a tangy kick.
- The acidity of the lemon juice complements the rich and nutty flavors of the parmesan crust.
- The zestiness enhances the overall taste of the dish and adds a refreshing twist to the recipe.
Incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh thyme or rosemary over the asparagus longhorns to add an aromatic element.
- The herbs infuse their fragrance into the dish, enhancing the overall taste and providing a delightful scent.
- Thyme brings earthy and slightly minty flavors, while rosemary adds a slightly piney and peppery taste.
Trying different cheese varieties for unique flavors:
- Experiment with different cheese varieties to create unique flavor profiles.
- Replace parmesan with feta cheese for a tangy and salty twist.
- Use aged cheddar for a sharper and bolder taste.
- Explore combinations like gouda or gruyere to add a creamy and nutty flavor to the asparagus longhorns.
Serving with a delicious dipping sauce:
- Elevate the dish by pairing it with a delicious dipping sauce.
- Prepare a creamy garlic aioli or a tangy balsamic reduction.
- The dipping sauce adds another layer of flavor and enhances the overall eating experience.
Pairing with grilled or roasted meats for a complete meal:
- Serve the parmesan crusted asparagus longhorn as a side dish alongside grilled or roasted meats.
- The combination of the crispy asparagus and the tender meat creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
- Try it with grilled chicken, oven-roasted pork tenderloin, or seared steak for a complete and protein-rich dinner.
Remember, these tips and variations allow you to add your own personal touch to the parmesan crusted asparagus longhorn recipe. Feel free to experiment, get creative, and tailor the dish to suit your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions Of Parmesan Crusted Asparagus Longhorn Recipe
How Do You Make Parmesan Crusted Asparagus?
To make parmesan crusted asparagus, preheat the oven to 425°f. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Roll the asparagus in a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese. Place the coated asparagus on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
What Is The Best Way To Cook Asparagus?
The best way to cook asparagus is to roast or bake it. Preheat the oven to 425°f, toss the asparagus in olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.
This method brings out the natural flavors and caramelizes the asparagus for a delicious side dish.
Can I Grill Parmesan Crusted Asparagus Instead Of Baking It?
Yes, you can also grill parmesan crusted asparagus for a smoky flavor. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Roll it in a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese. Grill for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the asparagus is tender and the coating is crispy.
Is Parmesan Crusted Asparagus A Healthy Dish?
Yes, parmesan crusted asparagus can be a healthy dish. Asparagus is low in calories and a good source of vitamins and minerals. By baking or grilling it instead of frying, you can enjoy the crispy coating without excess oil. Plus, the parmesan cheese adds a savory flavor without overwhelming the nutritional benefits of the asparagus.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Cheese For The Crust?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese for the crust. While parmesan cheese is commonly used for its sharp flavor and ability to melt and form a crispy coating, you can try other hard cheeses like pecorino romano or asiago.
Feel free to customize the recipe to your taste preferences and explore new flavor combinations.
What Can I Serve Parmesan Crusted Asparagus With?
Parmesan crusted asparagus makes a delicious side dish for a variety of meals. It pairs well with grilled meats like steak or chicken, roasted salmon, or even as part of a vegetarian plate with quinoa or couscous. Its crispy texture and savory flavor complement a range of main dishes and add a touch of elegance to any meal.
Conclusion
To sum up, this parmesan crusted asparagus longhorn recipe is a delightful and savory option for any occasion. The combination of fresh asparagus spears and a golden, cheesy crust creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a standout appetizer, this recipe delivers on taste and visual appeal.
The parmesan cheese adds a rich and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispness of the asparagus. The breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch, while the garlic and herbs add a pleasant depth of flavor. You can serve this dish alongside your favorite main course or enjoy it on its own as a flavorful snack.
With its simple preparation and delicious results, this parmesan crusted asparagus longhorn recipe is sure to become a crowd-pleaser in your culinary repertoire.