Asparagus with Toasted Bread Crumbs, Lemon and Garlic

Categories: Vegetables- Asparagus

Ingredients

• 2 lb. asparagus
• 1/3 cup plain bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 4 medium cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley leaves
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 lb. pasta, such as spaghetti or other long, thin pasta

Directions

1. Bring 4 quarts salted water to a boil in a large pot for cooking pasta.

2. Snap off tough ends from asparagus spears. Cut spears in half lengthwise (thicker spears should ne quartered), then slice them on the bias into 1-inch pieces. Steam the asparagus until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Set cooked asparagus aside.

3. Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bread crumbs and toast, shaking the pan occasionally to redistribute the crumbs until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Do not let them burn. Set aside.

4. Heat the oil in empty skillet. Add garlic and saute over medium heat until lightly colored, about 2 minutes. Stir in parsley, lemon juice and salt and cook for 30 seconds. Add the asparagus to the pan and mix well. . Taste for salt and adjust seasonings if necessary.

5. While preparing sauce, cook and drain pasta, making sure some water still clings to the noodles. toss the hot pasta with the asparagus sauce and the toasted bread crumbs. Mix well and transfer portions to a warm pasta bowls. Serve immediately.

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