Elevate Your Appetizer Game with Crispy Baked Asparagus Fries!

Are you searching for a delicious and nutritious appetizer that will impress your guests? Look no further than these irresistible Crispy Baked Asparagus Fries! Coated in a crunchy panko breadcrumb and parmesan cheese mixture, these asparagus fries are baked to perfection and served with a zesty lemon aioli for dipping. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making this crowd-pleasing appetizer, answer some common questions, provide cooking notes and variations, and even offer keto and low-carb versions. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these crispy, flavorful asparagus fries!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s address some common questions about making Crispy Baked Asparagus Fries:

Q: Can I use other types of breadcrumbs? A: Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs or seasoned breadcrumbs if you prefer. However, panko breadcrumbs are recommended for their extra crispiness.

Q: Can I make the lemon aioli ahead of time? A: Absolutely! The lemon aioli can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Q: Can I substitute the parmesan cheese with another type of cheese? A: While parmesan cheese adds a delicious flavor to the asparagus fries, you can experiment with other hard cheeses such as pecorino romano or asiago.

Now that we’ve addressed some common questions, let’s gather our ingredients and get started on making these delectable Crispy Baked Asparagus Fries!

Ingredients:

For the Asparagus Fries:

• 1 bunch asparagus
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 teaspoons water
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated

For the Lemon Aioli:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Prepare the Asparagus:

• Wash the asparagus and trim off the tough ends. Cut the asparagus spears in half crosswise to create manageable pieces.

3. Set Up the Breading Station:

• In three separate shallow bowls, place the beaten eggs with water in one, all-purpose flour seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in another, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated parmesan cheese in the third.

4. Bread the Asparagus:

• Dip each asparagus spear first in the flour mixture, then in the egg mixture, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Place the breaded asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake:

• Bake the asparagus fries in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

6. Make the Lemon Aioli:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until smooth and creamy.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the crispy baked asparagus fries hot out of the oven with the lemon aioli on the side for dipping.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Air Fryer Method: For an even crispier result, you can cook the breaded asparagus spears in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for a hint of heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Almond Flour Coating: Replace the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with a mixture of almond flour and crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.
• Sugar-Free Aioli: Omit the honey and use a sugar-free substitute such as erythritol in the lemon aioli for a low-carb option.

With their crispy exterior, tender interior, and irresistible flavor, these Crispy Baked Asparagus Fries are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they’re guaranteed to disappear in minutes. So, grab your asparagus and get ready to indulge in this delicious and nutritious treat. Your taste buds will thank you!