Garlic-Butter Asparagus with Lemon & Crispy Breadcrumbs
Ingredients
- 1½ poundsasparagus
- 3 tablespoonolive oil
- 4 clovesgarlic
- ½ cuppanko breadcrumbs
- 1lemon
- 2 tablespoonbutter
- ·salt
- ·black pepper
- ¼ teaspoonred pepper flakes
Prep
- 01
Trim the bottom 1 to 2 inches from the asparagus spears.
- 02
Mince 4 cloves garlic.
Method
- 01
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and cook, stirring often, for 3 to 4 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
- 02
Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and the butter. Once the butter foams, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 03
Add asparagus to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spears are tender-crisp and the tips begin to brown.
- 04
Remove from heat. Squeeze the juice of the lemon over the asparagus and toss gently. Sprinkle with the crispy breadcrumbs and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- 05
Serve immediately while the breadcrumbs are still crunchy.
Spice Tips
For more heat, increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add a small pinch of cayenne. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives before serving adds brightness, and a grating of Parmesan cheese complements the garlic beautifully.
This dish comes together in about 15 minutes. It works equally well as a side to grilled chicken or fish, or serve it on its own with crusty bread and a simple salad for a vegetarian dinner.