Asparagus Gremolata
For this fresh-as-spring side dish, blanched asparagus is blanketed with a lemony, herbed bread crumb mix
Ingredients
- 6 Side-Dish Servings
- 1¼ TEASPOONS SALT
- 2 Pounds Jumbo Asparagus Trimmed And Peeled
- 1 Garlic Clove Finely Chopped
- 4 Teaspoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 Teaspoon Freshly Grated Lemon Peel
- ¼ Cup Panko Japanese-Style Bread Crumbs
- 1 Tablespoon Water
- ¼ Cup Finely Chopped Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley Leaves
- ¼ Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Heat large covered saucepot of water to boiling over high heat.
- Fill large bowl with ice and water.
- Add 1 teaspoon salt, then asparagus, to boiling water.
- Cook uncovered 5 to 6 minutes or until spears are bright green and knife pierces stalks easily.
- With tongs, transfer directly to bowl of ice water.
- When asparagus is cool, drain well.
- Roll between paper towels to dry.
- Asparagus can be refrigerated in airtight container or zip-tight plastic bag up to overnight.
- In 12-inch skillet, combine garlic, 1 tablespoon oil, and ½ teaspoon lemon peel.
- Cook over medium heat 2 minutes or until golden, stirring occasionally.
- Add panko and cook 1 to 2 minutes or until golden and toasted, stirring frequently.
- Transfer to small bowl; wipe out skillet.
- In same skillet, combine asparagus, water, and remaining 1 teaspoon oil.
- Cook over medium heat 2 to 5 minutes or until heated through, turning frequently.
- Transfer to serving platter.
- Stir chopped parsley, remaining ½ teaspoon lemon peel, remaining ¼ teaspoon salt, and pepper into panko mixture.
- Spoon seasoned panko over asparagus.