On my trip to Europe, I managed to squeeze a wee bit of time to watch some TV. Although many major channels there play shows in local languages (without subtitles of course!), it is not that hard to understand what they are showing. In one particular cookery show, the host made crispy baked salmon and I was super tempted to try the same with some vegetable.
Upon researching, I found that asparagus could be worked the same way to get an amazing dish. And presenting to you crispy oven-roasted asparagus!
The herbed breadcrumbs add a crispy texture to the crunchy asparagus. When you take a bite of the crispy goodness, you can’t help but think of comparing it to deep-fried French fries only healthier and guilt-free.
This is a light, low-calorie and delish snack or side for a meal. Asparagus is a lovely source of Vitamins K, C, E, zinc, magnesium and folate. If you have been giving this vegetable a miss, perhaps this recipe can convince you to think differently about it! ☺
Ingredients
- Asparagus – 1 bunch
- Herbed breadcrumbs – ¼ cup – Recipe here
- Water – Enough to make corn flour paste
- Olive oil – 2 tblspns to drizzle
- Salt and pepper – To taste
Directions
Prep:
- Pre-heat oven to 200 to 201ºc.
- Line a baking tray with aluminium foil or baking paper.
- Wash the asparagus well; trim the woody ends of asparagus and discard them.
Make a thick paste with cornflour and water.
Place the herbed breadcrumbs on a flat dish or plate.
Method:
- Cut the asparagus in three or two pieces. Optionally, you could use them whole too.
- Take the asparagus and dip it in the cornflour paste.
- Immediately follow it up by rolling it on the herbed breadcrumbs. Make sure it is coated well with the crumbs.
- Arrange them on the lined baking tray.
- Drizzle with olive oil or if you have an oil spray it will work well too.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Place the tray in the oven and allow it to roast at 200ºc for 10 minutes.
- Remove the tray from the oven and carefully turn the asparagus, place it back in the oven for another 5 minutes or until golden.
- Once done, transfer to a plate and serve with dips of your choice or in a warm salad.
Tips:
- You could do the same with French beans, if you don’t like asparagus.
- Replace cornflour with rice flour, arrowroot powder.
- The herbed breadcrumbs are already flavoured with herbs, spices and salt. Adjust the flavours according to your preference.
- If you wish to skip the herbed breadcrumbs, you could use any variety that is available in the stores. Panko breadcrumbs would be a great addition too!
- Oven temperatures vary, adjust time and temperature accordingly.
- If you want to skip the flour, use 2 eggs whisked well, it will help the breadcrumbs stick to asparagus.
- You could add grated cheese to make it more indulgent and tasty.
