Asparagus Fries

This weekend was a busy one and I decided that a simple and easy recipe was the way to go. French fries are definitely one of my favorite comfort foods, but there is no denying that they aren't the healthiest.  Of course I will still order a side a fries with a burger at a restaurant, but after trying this recipe for "asparagus fries", I have learned that baking a healthy vegetable, coated in breadcrumbs, can result in an amazing and crunchy treat that satisfies the craving one may have for salty french fries.  Although the recipe I tackled is not actually a "french fry", as it is not made from a potato, the shape of the asparagus and the crunch of the coating give a similar effect with a much different, but still tasty, flavor.  This is a healthy take on fries, as there is no deep frying, and, asparagus is packed full of nutrients and antioxidants. Asparagus also contains glutathione, a detoxifying compound that helps break down carcinogens.

Ingredients
Asparagus
2 eggs, lightly beaten
Panko breadcrumbs
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cover the asparagus in flour, dip in the egg, and then dip into the mix of Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper.

2. Place the asparagus on a baking sheet and cook for 7-13 minutes, or until golden brown, at 425 degrees.

Check out the full directions on the "Closet Cooking" website.

I loved this recipe! Asparagus is one of my favorite vegetables to use in cooking, so I might be a little biased, however, I found it amazing that I could snack on these as if they were a bag full of chips, that I just had to finish.  If I were to give some tips on how to really perfect this recipe, I would suggest making sure that the asparagus is fully coated.  I went a little light on the coating and some breadcrumbs crumbled off as it baked.  Also, feel free to add any spices to the breadcrumb mixture.  I added some garlic powder for a little bit more of a kick.

Try this recipe out! I think you'll enjoy it even more than you might think!