I remember one particular spring when my family gathered at my grandmother’s house for a weekend feast. The weather was perfect—crisp, with just a hint of warmth. She had a way of making every meal feel special, but it was her Lemon Asparagus Fries that stole the show. She would serve them hot, straight from the oven, with a tangy dill dipping sauce that complemented the asparagus perfectly. It was a dish that not only tasted amazing but also evoked the joy of spending time together.
This recipe for Lemon Asparagus Fries with Dill Dipping Sauce is a nod to those cherished moments. It captures the essence of springtime with its bright lemon flavor and fresh dill. The asparagus fries, coated in crispy panko crumbs, are baked to golden perfection, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fries. The accompanying dill dipping sauce, creamy and zesty, adds a delightful twist that makes each bite even more enjoyable.
The recipe is simple enough to prepare on a busy day but special enough to serve at a gathering. It’s perfect for a light appetizer or a snack that feels indulgent without the guilt. I often find myself making these asparagus fries for a quick lunch or when I’m entertaining friends. They’re always a hit and bring a touch of spring’s freshness to any table.
Every time I make these Lemon Asparagus Fries, I’m reminded of those sunny days in my grandmother’s kitchen and the love she poured into her cooking. This dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a tribute to her and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. I hope this recipe brings you the same happiness and delicious memories it has brought me.
Enjoy these crispy asparagus fries with a dollop of creamy dill sauce, and let the flavors of spring brighten your day!
Making Lemon Dill Asparagus Fries with Creamy Dip
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 pound asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 to 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 6 ounces full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dip each asparagus spear first into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Place the coated spears on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the asparagus fries are golden brown and crispy.
- While the asparagus fries are baking, prepare the dill dipping sauce. In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, sour cream, dill, garlic, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Serve the asparagus fries hot with the creamy dill sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
Store leftover asparagus fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispiness. The dill sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Cooking Tips
For an extra crispy coating, double dip the asparagus spears by repeating the flour, egg, and panko breadcrumb steps. You can also use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs if needed.
Serving Suggestions
These asparagus fries are perfect as a snack or appetizer. Pair them with a fresh salad or serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Garnish with additional dill for extra flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use plain yogurt or even buttermilk as an alternative. For a dairy-free option, try coconut or almond yogurt. You can also substitute fresh dill with dried dill if needed.
Seasonal Variations
In the spring, try adding a touch of lemon zest to enhance the fresh flavors. During the summer, serve these fries with a side of tomato salsa or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains eggs and dairy. For an allergy-friendly version, use egg replacer and dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk or vegan yogurt.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh asparagus for optimal crispiness. However, if using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before breading to avoid sogginess.
Can I make the dill sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dill sauce up to 5 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
How can I make these fries spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the panko breadcrumbs for a spicy kick.
Can I bake these in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook them in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
What can I serve with these asparagus fries?
These fries pair well with a variety of dips such as ranch, spicy mayo, or a tangy mustard sauce. They also go great with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Can I prepare the asparagus ahead of time?
You can prep the asparagus spears and coat them with breadcrumbs ahead of time. Store them on a baking sheet in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Lemon Asparagus Fries with Dill Dipping Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 pound trimmed asparagus spears
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 to 2 cups panko crumbs
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 6 ounces whole-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 2 cloves fresh garlic minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- In three separate shallow bowls, prepare the flour, beaten eggs, and panko crumbs. Start by coating each asparagus spear in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip the spears into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat them with panko crumbs, shaking off the extra crumbs before placing them on the prepared cookie sheet, ensuring they have space between them.
- Bake the asparagus in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
- While the asparagus is baking, combine the Greek yogurt, sour cream, dill, garlic, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir well to create the creamy dill sauce.
- Serve the crispy asparagus fries alongside the creamy dill sauce in small bowls for dipping or on a plate with the fries. Enjoy your crunchy, flavorful snack!
