Roasted Asparagus With Crunchy Parmesan Topping

1. 1

   Heat oven to 500 degrees; while it heats, put bread in, and check frequently until it is lightly toasted and dry.

2. 2

   Coarsely grind or grate bread and cheese together (a small food processor is best), and keep crumbs larger than commercial bread crumbs.

3. 3

   Rinse asparagus, and break off woody bottoms.

4. 4

   Lay stalks in a baking dish that will hold them in two or three layers.

5. 5

   Toss with bits of butter or the oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place in oven.

6. 6

   Roast 5 minutes, then shake dish to redistribute butter or oil.

7. 7

   Roast 5 minutes more, then test for doneness by piercing a spear with point of a sharp knife; it should slide in but meet a little resistance.

8. 8

   (Up to this point, the recipe can be made as much as two hours before serving; just leave asparagus at room temperature).

9. 9

   Turn on broiler and place rack as close as possible to heating element.

10. 10

    Top asparagus with cheese-crumb mixture and run under broiler to brown, a minute or two.

11. 11

    Serve hot or at room temperature.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

No additional tips available.