These Crispy Asparagus Asiago Spears are a tasty and fun snack! Fresh asparagus is lightly coated and baked until golden, creating a crunchy outside with a cheesy twist from Asiago cheese.
Perfect for munching while watching your favorite show, these spears are a hit at parties too. I love serving them with a zesty dip—it makes them simply irresistible. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh, firm spears are essential for this recipe. If asparagus isn’t in season, try green beans or zucchini as substitutes—they’ll work quite well.
Asiago Cheese: Asiago gives a wonderful nuttiness, but if you can’t find it, Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can be great alternatives. They will still deliver a nice cheesy flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For that extra crunch, panko is the best choice. If unavailable, you can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic its tangy flavor. It works just as well!
How Do You Get the Perfectly Crispy Coating?
The key to a crunchy coating lies in the dredging method! Follow these steps closely for great results:
- Start by thoroughly coating the asparagus in flour. This helps the egg wash stick better.
- When you dip the spear in the egg and buttermilk mixture, let any excess drip off. Too much liquid can make the coating soggy.
- Make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the asparagus before placing it on the baking sheet. This ensures a thick coating.
- Don’t forget to spray the spears lightly with cooking spray before baking. This helps them crisp up nicely in the oven!
Enjoy making these crispy spears; they’re a fun treat that’s also a bit healthier!
Crispy Asparagus Asiago Spears
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12-15 spears), trimmed
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup Asiago cheese, finely grated
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Optional: Ranch or herbed dip for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 12-15 minutes for baking, so approximately 30 minutes total. It’s a quick and easy way to whip up a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Give it a light spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prep the Asparagus:
Wash the asparagus spears thoroughly and trim off the tough ends to make them nice and tender.
3. Set Up Your Dredging Stations:
Get three shallow bowls ready for dredging: In Bowl 1, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In Bowl 2, whisk the eggs and buttermilk until smooth. In Bowl 3, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Asiago cheese.
4. Dredging the Asparagus:
Take each asparagus spear and first dip it into the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the egg and buttermilk mixture, letting the extra drip off. Finally, roll the spear in the panko-Asiago mixture, pressing lightly to get a good coating.
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the coated asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer and not touching each other. This helps them crisp up!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Lightly spray the spears with a bit more cooking spray to help them become nice and crunchy. Bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown. Turn them halfway through for even baking.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once they are out of the oven, let them cool for a couple of minutes. If you like, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or a herbed dip.
Now, enjoy your crispy, cheesy asparagus spears as a delicious appetizer or snack! They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh asparagus for optimal crunchiness. However, if you only have frozen asparagus, make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before dipping to avoid sogginess in the coating.
What Can I Substitute for Asiago Cheese?
If Asiago cheese isn’t available, you can replace it with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a similar cheesy flavor. Both options will work well in this recipe!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crispy asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to help restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the coated asparagus spears in advance and keep them in the fridge for several hours. Just bake them right before you’re ready to serve for the best texture!
