Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks with Golden Crunch (Print version)

Fresh asparagus coated with panko and parmesan, baked until golden, crisp, and ready for dipping.

# Ingredients:

For the asparagus sticks

01 - 1 lb (450 g) medium asparagus, woody ends trimmed
02 - 1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
03 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs
08 - 1/2 cup (50 g) finely grated parmesan cheese
09 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 - Olive oil spray

For the garlic lemon dip

11 - 1/2 cup (115 g) mayonnaise
12 - 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
13 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
14 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
15 - 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
16 - Black pepper, to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Set a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet and coat the rack lightly with oil spray.
02 - Trim the woody ends from the asparagus. Rinse if needed, then pat the spears very dry with a clean towel.
03 - In one shallow bowl, stir flour with 1/4 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, mix panko, parmesan, Italian seasoning, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
04 - Dredge a few asparagus spears in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg, then press into the panko-parmesan mixture until evenly coated.
05 - Arrange coated asparagus on the rack with space between each spear. Spray lightly with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the coating is golden and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
06 - Stir mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and black pepper together. Serve the asparagus sticks hot with the dip.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served immediately while the panko coating is crisp.
02 - Use medium asparagus for the best balance of tender stalks and browned crust.
03 - Air fryer option: cook at 390°F for 7-9 minutes in a single layer.