Name: Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 500 g fresh asparagus spears (trimmed); 60 g all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs (beaten); 100 g panko breadcrumbs; 60 g grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Cooking spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Enjoy tender asparagus spears coated in a crispy Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture for a savory side or snack. These Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are a Savory Veggie Snack, prepared and baked in under 30 minutes, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture. With garlic powder, Parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs, you get a golden, crunchy coating, while oven-baking keeps it light. Serve fresh with a drizzle of olive oil for maximum crunch, ideal for any meal or a quick, healthy bite.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks

Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are a standout Savory Veggie Snack:

Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes for busy nights.
Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples for easy assembly.
Crispy and Tender: Crunchy coating with soft asparagus inside.
Versatile: Perfect as a side, appetizer, or snack.
I make this Savory Veggie Snack for family dinners, and even picky eaters can’t resist!

Ingredients for Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks

Here’s what you’ll need for Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks (serves 4):

1 lb fresh asparagus spears
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Olive oil or cooking spray

Ingredient Tips:

Asparagus: Choose bright green spears with tight tips for freshness.
Panko: Ensures extra crunch; regular breadcrumbs work but are less crispy.
Parmesan: Freshly grated for rich, umami flavor.
Olive Oil: Enhances browning; cooking spray is a lighter option.
Eggs: Acts as the glue for a solid coating.

Directions for Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks

Let’s make these irresistible Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks!

Preheat Oven

I preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Set Up Dredging Station

I arrange three shallow dishes: ½ cup flour in the first, 2 beaten eggs in the second, and a mix of ¾ cup panko, ½ cup Parmesan, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper in the third.

Coat Asparagus

I trim the woody ends from 1 lb asparagus. For each spear, I roll it in flour, shaking off excess, dip in egg to coat fully, then press into the panko mixture, ensuring all sides are covered.

Arrange on Baking Sheet

I place the coated spears on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between each to prevent steaming.

Add Oil

I lightly drizzle with olive oil or spritz with cooking spray to promote golden browning.

Bake

I bake for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for extra crispiness, until the coating is golden and asparagus is tender.

Serve

I serve immediately for the best crunch, paired with a dipping sauce or as a side.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~22 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~180 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 20g carbs, 8g protein, 8g fat, 3g fiber

Variations for Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks

Try these twists on Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks:

Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp cayenne or smoked paprika to the panko mix.
Herb Boost: Mix ½ tsp dried thyme or oregano into the coating.
Lemon Zest: Add 1 tsp lemon zest to the panko for brightness.
Cheese Swap: Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago instead of Parmesan.
Gluten-Free: Swap panko and flour for gluten-free versions.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with a lemon aioli (mayo, lemon juice, garlic) for a restaurant-style Savory Veggie Snack.
Serve with marinara, honey mustard, or a chive-parsley yogurt dip.
Add to a platter with Layla Cooks’ Smoked Mexican Street Corn Dip for a party spread.
Enjoy as a side with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.

Storage

I store leftover Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness, as microwaving softens the coating. For make-ahead, I coat the spears up to 12 hours in advance, refrigerate covered, and bake just before serving to keep the coating crisp.

FAQs About Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks

How do I make the asparagus extra crispy?
For extra crispiness, flip them halfway through baking and apply additional cooking spray or olive oil before finishing.

Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

What dipping sauces pair well with this?
Try pairing with marinara, garlic aioli, or a simple lemon yogurt sauce for added flavor.

Can I prepare the coated asparagus in advance?
Yes, you can coat the asparagus and refrigerate them for up to 12 hours before baking. Bake just before serving.

What can I use as a substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.

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Conclusion

These Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks have transformed ordinary vegetables into an addictive Savory Veggie Snack in my household. The contrast between the tender asparagus interior and crunchy, savory coating makes these spears disappear within minutes of hitting the table. Perfect as a side, appetizer, or snack, this easy recipe is a must-try for veggie lovers and picky eaters alike.