Garlic Lemon Asparagus with Crunchy Breadcrumb Topping
This delightful dish features fresh asparagus dressed in a zesty lemon-infused butter sauce, topped with crispy garlic breadcrumbs for an irresistible crunch. Inspired by Delia Smith's Vegetarian Collection, this recipe elevates the classic asparagus with optional garlic for an added flavor dimension. Whether you choose to steam or pan roast the asparagus, this dish shines as a refined starter or a vibrant side, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh asparagus
1 1/4 lbs (washed, woody ends snapped off)
lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
butter
2 ounces (divided)
fresh white breadcrumbs
1 1/2 ounces (about 2 slices of bread, crusts removed)
garlic clove
1 (crushed (optional))
lemon zest
1 tablespoon (finely grated)
salt
to taste
freshly ground black pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Begin by washing the asparagus gently in cold water. Hold each stalk in both hands, bending gently until it snaps at the woody end, discarding the tough part.
2
Prepare your steamer and arrange the asparagus stalks inside. Steam them over simmering water for about 5-6 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a skewer. Avoid overcooking to retain their bright color and crunch.
3
While the asparagus is steaming, heat 1 ounce (25 grams) of butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the butter is frothy, add the breadcrumbs and the optional crushed garlic, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes golden brown and crispy.
4
Transfer the browned crumbs to a plate, then mix in the finely grated lemon zest, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5
Return the frying pan to the heat and add the remaining butter. Once melted and frothy, carefully add the steamed asparagus and gently toss to coat them in the aromatic lemon butter.
6
Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the asparagus and season again with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
7
Divide the beautifully coated asparagus among warmed serving plates, generously sprinkle with the crispy breadcrumb mixture, and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garlic Lemon Asparagus with Crunchy Breadcrumb Topping?
It is a refined vegetable dish featuring fresh asparagus dressed in a zesty lemon butter sauce and topped with crispy, garlic-infused breadcrumbs.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 8 ingredients: asparagus, lemon juice, butter, breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
How do I prepare the asparagus before cooking?
Wash the asparagus in cold water and snap off the woody ends by bending each stalk until it breaks naturally.
How long should I steam the asparagus?
Steam the stalks over simmering water for approximately 5 to 6 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a skewer.
How do I make the crunchy breadcrumb topping?
Fry fresh breadcrumbs and optional crushed garlic in butter over medium heat until golden brown and crispy.
Is the garlic in this recipe mandatory?
No, the garlic is an optional addition to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor dimension.
What kind of breadcrumbs should be used?
The recipe calls for 1.5 ounces of fresh white breadcrumbs, which is roughly two slices of bread with the crusts removed.
When should I add the lemon zest?
Mix the finely grated lemon zest into the breadcrumbs after they have been browned and removed from the heat.
How is the lemon butter sauce prepared?
Melt the remaining butter in a pan until frothy, toss in the steamed asparagus, and then squeeze fresh lemon juice over them.
Can I pan roast the asparagus instead of steaming?
Yes, the recipe description notes that you can choose to either steam or pan roast the asparagus stalks.
What is the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by Delia Smith's Vegetarian Collection.
How much asparagus do I need?
You will need 1 and 1/4 pounds of fresh asparagus for this preparation.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is specifically categorized as vegetarian.
How should I serve the Garlic Lemon Asparagus?
Serve immediately on warmed plates, generously sprinkled with the crispy breadcrumb mixture for the best texture.
What temperature should the frying pan be when browning crumbs?
The frying pan should be set to medium heat to ensure the butter becomes frothy and the crumbs brown evenly.
How much lemon juice is used?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
How much butter is needed in total?
A total of 2 ounces of butter is used, divided between frying the crumbs and coating the asparagus.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
What color should the breadcrumbs be when finished?
The breadcrumbs should be cooked until they reach a golden brown color.
How do I avoid overcooking the asparagus?
Monitor the steaming process closely and test with a skewer after 5 minutes to ensure they retain their bright color and crunch.
What is the role of the lemon zest in this recipe?
The lemon zest is mixed with the breadcrumbs to provide a concentrated citrus aroma and flavor.
Is this dish a side or a starter?
This versatile dish can be served as either a refined starter or a vibrant side dish.
How do I season the final dish?
Season the breadcrumb mixture with salt and pepper, and then season the buttered asparagus again before serving.
Should I keep the woody ends of the asparagus?
No, the tough woody ends should be discarded after snapping them off.
Does this recipe include nutritional information?
The provided raw data does not specify calories, fat, or protein counts for this recipe.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include asparagus, vegetarian, starter, side dish, lemon butter, garlic, breadcrumbs, healthy, and quick recipe.
How much lemon zest is required?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of finely grated lemon zest.
What is the texture of the breadcrumb topping?
The topping is designed to be irresistible and crunchy.
Can I use different types of bread for the crumbs?
While fresh white bread is suggested, you could experiment with other types of bread for different textures.
How much garlic should I add?
One crushed garlic clove is recommended if you choose to include it.