Name: Crispy Air Fryer Asparagus with Parmesan Crust
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs; ¼ tsp paprika; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp salt; 1 large egg; 1 lb asparagus; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder

This Crispy Air Fryer Asparagus with Parmesan Crust features tender asparagus coated in a crunchy, cheesy crust. Perfect as a healthy side, it’s a quick recipe that blends fresh flavors with a delightful texture using minimal oil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crispy air fryer asparagus with Parmesan crust is a nutritious, healthy side dish that transforms tender asparagus into a crunchy, cheesy delight with a golden Parmesan crust, perfect for any meal. Quick to prepare with minimal oil, it’s packed with vitamins and fiber. Versatile—pair with protein or enjoy solo—this recipe offers a guilt-free indulgence that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Trim Asparagus Evenly: Ensures uniform cooking.
Use Fresh Parmesan: Grates better for a crisp crust.
Preheat Air Fryer: Helps achieve a golden finish.
Don’t Overcrowd: Allows air circulation for crispiness.
Shake Basket: Promotes even coating.
Check Doneness: Asparagus should be tender-crisp.
Serve Immediately: Maximizes the crispy texture.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and tweak salt to preference.
Light Oil Coating: Enhances crispiness without excess fat.
Avoid Overcooking: Prevents sogginess.

Yield: 4 servings

Crispy Air Fryer Asparagus with Parmesan Crust

Crispy Parmesan-crusted asparagus, healthy air fryer side.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ tsp paprika
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
1 large egg
1 lb asparagus
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Prep the Asparagus: Rinse asparagus and trim the tough ends.
Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, beat the egg. In another, mix Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Coat with Egg: Dip each asparagus spear in the beaten egg, letting excess drip off.
Add Parmesan Crust: Roll the egg-coated asparagus in the Parmesan mixture until fully covered.
Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F and preheat for 3 minutes.
Arrange in Basket: Lightly brush asparagus with olive oil and place in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook the Asparagus: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Check Doneness: Ensure asparagus is tender-crisp and the crust is golden.
Add Finishing Touch: Remove from the air fryer, drizzle with lemon juice, and let rest for 5 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a delightful side, and savor the crispy, cheesy goodness!

Notes

Trim asparagus evenly for uniform cooking; use fresh Parmesan for crispness.
Preheat air fryer for best results; avoid overcrowding for texture.
Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness; reheat to restore crispness.
This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free or low-carb diets with appropriate swaps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 156Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 57mgSodium 601mgCarbohydrates 12gFiber 3gSugar 2gProtein 9g

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, tough ends trimmed.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Grated for a crunchy crust.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Extra virgin for light coating.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp): For aromatic flavor.
Black Pepper (½ tsp): Ground for a subtle kick.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.
Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): Fresh for a bright finish.
Panko Breadcrumbs (¼ cup): For extra crunch.
Egg (1 large): Beaten for binding.
Paprika (¼ tsp): For a hint of smokiness.

Variations and Substitutions

Veggie Swap: Use green beans or broccoli.
Cheese Swap: Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano.
Oil Swap: Use avocado oil or cooking spray.
Spice Swap: Add cayenne or Italian seasoning.
Breadcrumbs Swap: Use almond flour for gluten-free.
Egg Swap: Use milk or flax egg for binding.
Citrus Swap: Use lime juice instead of lemon.
Low-Sodium: Reduce or skip salt based on cheese.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in air fryer.
Freezer: Not recommended due to texture loss.
Reheating: Warm at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispness.