Crumb Topped Asparagus
Crumb Topped Asparagus features tender asparagus spears topped with a savory, crunchy breadcrumb and egg mixture, perfect for elegant dinners or sophisticated vegetable sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break 1 slice of bread into 6 pieces and drop into a blender. Cover and run on low speed until bread is finely crumbed. Empty into a 1 cup measure.
- Repeat with remaining bread until you have 1 cup of bread crumbs; set aside.
- Put the hard-boiled eggs in the blender. Cover and run on low speed until finely chopped.
- Melt butter in a frypan; add bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and dry mustard. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until crumbs are golden brown.
- Stir in the chopped eggs.
- Serve hot over cooked asparagus. Makes 5 to 6 servings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchy topping, consider using panko bread crumbs instead of regular bread. You can also substitute the hard-boiled eggs with a plant-based option, like silken tofu, for a vegetarian twist. Adjust the seasonings to your taste; adding garlic powder or fresh herbs can elevate the flavor. Ensure the butter is melted before adding the crumbs for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crumb topped asparagus with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Overnight Bubble Bread for a delightful brunch. Drizzle with a bit of lemon juice or balsamic glaze before serving to enhance flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. For a quick option, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crumb Topped Asparagus contains roughly 213 calories, with 5g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crumb mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in a pan before serving. However, it's best to prepare the asparagus fresh to maintain its texture and flavor.
What type of asparagus works best for this recipe?
Thin asparagus spears are ideal as they cook quickly and have a tender texture. However, you can use thicker spears; just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are tender enough to enjoy.
Can I freeze the crumb topping?
Yes, the crumb topping can be frozen. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using, and reheat in a pan to regain its crunchiness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).