How do you know when asparagus is done cooking?

This decision is ultimately up to you and how you like your veggies. However, there are a few signs to look for, particularly when making asparagus fries. For example, the asparagus should turn a slightly darker green. Also, if making asparagus fries, the coating will turn a beautiful golden-brown color and look slightly crispy. When fully cooked, air fryer asparagus should also be soft and flexible instead of hard and straight. Once these boxes are checked, you’ll know your asparagus fries are ready to eat!

Do I need to blanch asparagus for asparagus fries?

No, blanching is not necessary for this air fryer asparagus fries recipe. They cook fast enough that you do not run this risk of them charring like they would when they are grilled, seared, or roasted.

Can I use frozen asparagus?

We haven’t tested it, but we do not recommend using frozen asparagus as the breading is likely to become soggy as it thaws.

Can I use a different breading or breadcrumbs?

Technically, you could use any breading you like best. However, we can not attest to the baking time, texture, or results. If you do use a different breading, you may need to adjust the seasonings including extra salt, pepper, garlic powder, and even paprika to prevent your fries from being bland!

What should I serve with these asparagus fries?

This recipe is super tasty on its own. However, we love to pair it with a side of garlic herb aioli or refreshing lemon aioli. Then, add a protein source like ginger air fryer chicken or baked salmon , and you've got yourself a nutritious, well-rounded meal!

Air Fryer Asparagus Fries (Baked Option)

Description

These gluten-free panko-breaded Air Fryer Asparagus Fries are a family-friendly side dish you can feel good about! (Baked Option)

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 pound large (thick) asparagus spears, trimmed
1/2 to 1 cup gluten-free seasoned panko bread crumbs, divided
2 to 3 Tablespoons grated parmesan or dairy-free grated cheese
1 Tablespoon light olive oil
1 Tablespoon gluten free oat flour or gluten-free flour of choice
1 large egg, whisked
2 Tablespoons non-dairy milk
Avocado or olive oil cooking spray

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Instructions

Wash the asparagus, pat dry and trim the bottom of the spears. Place the asparagus in a large ziplock bag, add the flour and coat the asparagus in the bag. Set aside.
Whisk together the panko, parmesan cheese and olive oil then divide into 2 wide bowls.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Pour this mixture into the bag and coat the floured asparagus (see notes for alternative method).
Gently roll/coat the asparagus in the panko mix (2 bowls are used, one being a replacement in case one panko mixture gets too wet from the batter). Place the coated spears on a lined pan.
Preheat the air fryer to 400 F. Once preheated, spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil spray then lightly spray the coated asparagus. Place the coated asparagus in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes or until crispy and golden. Remove carefully with tongs and continue cooking in batches.
Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container. Reheat leftover asparagus in the air fryer.

Notes

Cooking Tip – An alternative prep method is to set up a dredging station after coating asparagus in oat flour. Thick asparagus spears work best as they hold more panko than smaller thin spears.

Alternative Method – Bake the asparagus fries in the oven on a lined baking sheet at 400 F for 16 to 20 minutes, rotating halfway through cooking. Broil the last minute, if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size:
Calories: 178
Sugar: 3.4 g
Sodium: 196.4 mg
Fat: 7 g
Saturated Fat: 1.7 g
Carbohydrates: 11.5 g
Fiber: 4.5 g
Protein: 9.8 g
Cholesterol: 67.4 mg