Buttery Garlic Asparagus with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Ingredients
- 1½ poundsasparagus
- 3 tablespoonsbutter
- 4 clovesgarlic
- ½ cuppanko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cupParmesan cheese
- 1lemon
- ·salt
- ·black pepper
Prep
- 01
Trim woody ends from 1.5 pounds asparagus and rinse.
- 02
Mince 4 cloves garlic.
- 03
Grate 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese.
Method
- 01
Trim the woody ends off the asparagus (bend each spear until it snaps naturally) and rinse.
- 02
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs and cook, stirring often, for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and toasty. Remove to a plate and season with a pinch of salt.
- 03
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until tender and lightly browned.
- 04
Transfer asparagus to a serving plate. Top with the crispy breadcrumb mixture and grated Parmesan. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything and serve immediately.
Spice Tips
For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic as it toasts. A tiny grating of fresh nutmeg in the breadcrumb mixture adds subtle warmth without overpowering the asparagus.
Pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, fish, or steak. Can be made up to 2 hours ahead and reheated gently in a warm oven.