Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) asparagus, thick stalks trimmed
  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup (90g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Wash and trim the asparagus.
  2. Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in the third bowl.
  3. Dip each asparagus spear into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko mixture.
  4. Place breaded asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown and crispy, turning halfway through.
  6. While asparagus bakes, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  7. Serve the baked asparagus fries immediately with the lemon-garlic aioli for dipping.