Plated + Served: Asparagus with Golden Lemony Garlic Breadcrumbs
Springtime means our long wait is over. Asparagus are finally here.
Okay, it probably seems like they’re always in season because a lot of grocery stores carry them year-round (which is a little sad, because it diminishes how special they really are).
Between March and May, fresh, locally grown asparagus, bursting with their vivid grassy taste are everywhere. Green… white… purple… pick your favorite.
Buying perfect green asparagus is pretty simple, but the most important thing to look for is bright green stalks that are smooth, firm, straight and round. The tips should be compact. Click here for more buying tips.
Steaming asparagus is a great way to get this veggie on the table fast. The crunchy lemony-garlic breadcrumbs in this recipe make these asparagus even more special.
So, what are you waiting for? Get going… the asparagus are here!
Asparagus with Golden Lemony Garlic Breadcrumbs
prep: 10 minutes
cook: 10 minutes
you’ll need…
1 pound asparagus
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
2 garlic cloves, finely minced or pushed through a garlic press
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
let’s get to it…
Trim asparagus ends and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add panko, minced garlic and salt and cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from heat.
Whisk zest and lemon juice together in a small bowl until well blended. Stir the lemon mixture into the panko breadcrumbs; set aside.
Steam the asparagus in a microwave safe dish (link) for 2 to 3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, they should be crisp-tender.
Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and serve immediately.
cooking know how: If you don’t have a microwave steamer, use kitchen string to tie asparagus into a bundle (you may have to make 2 small bundles). Place in 1-inch of water in a tall, covered saucepan and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes or until tender. You can also lay down the asparagus on their sides and steam in a metal or bamboo steamer.
