Asparagus with Lemon Brown Butter and Crispy Breadcrumbs
Ingredients
- 1½ poundsasparagus
- 4 tablespoonsbutter
- ½ cuppanko breadcrumbs
- 1lemon
- 3 clovesgarlic
- ·salt
- ·black pepper
- ·parmesan cheese (optional)
Method
- 01
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs and toast, stirring frequently, for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Season with a pinch of salt and transfer to a small bowl.
- 02
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add asparagus and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until tender-crisp and bright green. Drain well and return to the skillet.
- 03
Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter to the skillet over medium heat. Mince 3 garlic cloves and add to the melting butter, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 04
Continue cooking the butter until it turns golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes longer. Zest the lemon into the pan, then juice it in. Toss the asparagus gently to coat.
- 05
Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with crispy breadcrumbs, and serve immediately.
Spice Tips
For subtle heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brown butter. A touch of smoked paprika in the breadcrumbs adds depth. Fresh herbs like tarragon or chives scattered at the end brighten the dish.
Parmesan shaved or grated over the top adds richness. You can make this ahead: blanch the asparagus and store in the fridge, then quickly toast the breadcrumbs and brown the butter just before serving.