Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks

I have only been eating asparagus for 2 years or so and I still can't get over how delicious it is. I find myself wondering why I waited so long to eat it. Since I love eating this amazing green veggie, I think it is important to find different ways to serve it. This recipe is a great way to enjoy your green vegetables and my favorite thing about this is that they come out crispy, so you feel like you are being slightly indulgent. You can serve this side dish with dinner or this makes a wonderful appetizer for a social gathering, if you are hosting. They are best when served fresh out of the oven. We ate these asparagus sticks with some homemade spaghetti.

Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks
Serves: 4 - 6
Adapted by: http://www.howsweeteats.com/2011/03/crispy-parmesan-asparagus-sticks/

Ingredients:
1 bunch of asparagus (approx 30 spears) - try to find asparagus that is thinner
2 egg whites
1/4 cup white whole wheat flour OR all purpose flour
1 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs OR seasoned regular breadcrumbs - highly recommend panko!
1/4 cup reduced fat parmesan cheese
salt and pepper

Directions:
-Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
-Coat a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
-First you want to clean the asparagus and snap off the tough ends of each spear.
-In a small bowl you will want to add the egg whites and slightly beat them.
-On a large plate, add the breadcrumbs, flour, and parmesan cheese and mix together until blended.
-Coat each asparagus spear with some of the egg wash and then lay in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to roll it around to coat it well. Place each asparagus on the baking sheet. Repeat process until all asparagus is coated and on the baking sheet.
-Bake in the oven for 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown. You may wish to flip them in the middle of cooking to prevent sticking or burning. Just be gentle so you don't remove all the crispy coating.
-Season with salt and pepper when they are finished cooking and serve.

Enjoy! :)