Father’s Day BBQ Spread: Parmesan Crusted Asparagus

This dish is all about balance. You want the asparagus tender but still with a bit of bite, then finished with a crispy, cheesy topping that adds texture without overpowering the vegetable. This is a really simple recipe that you can knock out quickly, even if you aren’t a particularly experienced cook.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch asparagus (woody ends trimmed)
• Juice of ½ lemon
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Olive Oil as needed
• Salt & pepper to taste

Method

1. In a medium sized bowl, combine panko, parmesan, lemon zest, olive oil and salt & pepper. Mix together with your fingers until crumbs are slightly clumpy. Set aside.
2. Heat a cast iron pan over medium high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil Add asparagus in a single layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until the asparagus is bright green and beginning to blister in spots. The asparagus should be tender, but still have some snap to it.
3. Right before removing from the heat, add lemon juice. Toss asparagus to coat and then remove from the heat.
4. Move asparagus to a baking dish. Top evenly with the crumb mixture and hit with another generous sprinkle of parmesan.
5. Place under the broiler or into a warm smoker for a few minutes until the panko has browned and cheese has melted.
6. Serve immediately.
   
   

Recipe by Jared Pullman of How Low Can You Slow