Air Fryer Asparagus Fries with Dipping Sauce
Crispy, golden asparagus fries made in the air fryer, paired with a creamy, tangy dipping sauce. This healthy, flavorful side dish is quick to prepare, perfect for dinner, and loved by all. Enjoy a guilt-free crunch with fresh asparagus, seasoned to perfection, and a zesty sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This air fryer asparagus fries recipe is a game-changer for veggie lovers and skeptics alike! The air fryer transforms fresh asparagus into crispy, golden fries with minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional fries. The accompanying dipping sauce—creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy—elevates the dish, adding a burst of flavor that complements the asparagus perfectly. It’s quick, taking less than 20 minutes from start to finish, and requires simple ingredients you likely already have. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, this recipe is versatile, kid-friendly, and sure to impress at dinner parties or weeknight meals. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite seasonings or sauces!
Recipe Tips and Tricks:
- Choose thick asparagus spears for the best fry-like texture; thin ones may become too soft.
- Pat asparagus dry after rinsing to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches for even crispiness.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
- Use parchment paper in the air fryer for easier cleanup, but ensure it’s weighted down to avoid flying.
- Double the dipping sauce if you’re serving a crowd—it’s that good!
- Experiment with coatings like almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch, as asparagus softens as it cools.
Air Fryer Asparagus Fries with Dipping Sauce
Crispy air fryer asparagus fries with a zesty dipping sauce—healthy, quick, and perfect for dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray
Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp sriracha
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Prep the Asparagus: Rinse asparagus under cold water, pat dry with a paper towel, and trim off woody ends. Choose thick spears for the best fry-like texture.
- Set Up Coating Stations: Place flour in a shallow dish. Beat eggs in a second dish. In a third dish, mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Asparagus: Dredge each asparagus spear in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg, then roll in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place coated asparagus in a single layer, avoiding overlap. Work in batches if needed.
- Cook the Fries: Air fry for 7-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning. Fries should be golden and crispy.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: While fries cook, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, sriracha, and garlic powder in a small bowl until smooth.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure asparagus is tender but crisp. If needed, air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer fries to a platter and serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side for maximum enjoyment.
- Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley for a fancy touch that’ll impress your dinner guests!
Notes
- Use fresh asparagus for the best results; frozen may become soggy.
- Adjust sriracha in the sauce to suit your spice preference.
- For extra crunch, double-coat by repeating the egg and panko steps.
- Serve as a side with grilled chicken or as a standalone appetizer.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 471Total Fat 28gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 21gCholesterol 115mgSodium 976mgCarbohydrates 40gFiber 4gSugar 4gProtein 15g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes:
- Asparagus (1 lb): Fresh, thick spears work best for a fry-like texture. Trim woody ends for tenderness.
- Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Adds crunch; use gluten-free panko for dietary needs.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Enhances flavor with a nutty, savory kick; opt for fresh over pre-grated.
- Eggs (2 large): Acts as a binder for the breadcrumb coating; ensure they’re well-beaten for even coverage.
- Flour (½ cup): Helps the egg adhere; all-purpose or gluten-free flour both work well.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Adds subtle depth; adjust to taste for bolder flavor.
- Paprika (½ tsp): Provides a smoky touch; smoked paprika intensifies the flavor.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup, for sauce): Forms the creamy base for the dipping sauce; use full-fat for richness.
- Lemon Juice (1 tbsp, for sauce): Brightens the sauce with a zesty tang; fresh is best.
- Sriracha (1 tsp, for sauce): Adds a mild kick; adjust for desired heat level.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Gluten-Free: Swap panko and flour for gluten-free versions to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use vegan mayo for the sauce.
- Spice It Up: Add cayenne or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix for extra heat.
- Cheese Swap: Try grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative to Parmesan.
- Low-Carb: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly option.
- Herb Boost: Mix fresh chopped parsley, dill, or thyme into the breadcrumb coating for added freshness.
- Sauce Variations: Swap sriracha for Dijon mustard or horseradish for a different flavor profile.
- Air Fryer Alternatives: Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes if an air fryer isn’t available, flipping halfway.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Store cooked asparagus fries in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Dipping Sauce: Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days; stir before serving.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as asparagus fries lose their crisp texture when frozen.
- Make-Ahead: Prep the coating and sauce up to a day in advance; store separately in the fridge.
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