Make these asparagus fries for an appetizer, a snack or as a side dish. They are wonderfully crisp even though they are baked, not fried.
1 lb. asparagus, washed, ends trimmed, patted dry with paper towels
1/2 c. flour
2 eggs, lightly beaten
3/4 c. Panko breadcrumbs
1/4 c. Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan cheese, grated
salt and pepper, to taste
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
Dredge asparagus first in the flour, then dip in the egg and lastly into a mixture of the Panko, Parmesan, salt and pepper.
Place the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake until golden brown, about 7-13 minutes.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, if desired.