Crispy Baked Asparagus Fries

Servings: 4 Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 bunch fresh asparagus
• 2 eggs, lightly 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 freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 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

PREPARATION:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking sheet with nonstick spray.
2. Rinse the asparagus under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim off the tough ends of the asparagus spears.
3. In a shallow dish, whisk together the beaten eggs and water. In another dish, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In a separate dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each asparagus spear into the egg mixture, then coat it evenly with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip the coated asparagus into the egg mixture again, then roll it in the panko breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
5. Place the coated asparagus spears onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
7. While the asparagus is baking, prepare the lemon aioli by combining the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
8. Once the asparagus is cooked, remove it from the oven and serve immediately with the lemon aioli for dipping. Enjoy your crispy baked asparagus fries!