Fresh Asparagus Patties

Like green sprouts peeking through the dirt, Chef John's easy asparagus patties signal spring at its freshest. They're great with lemon aioli or in veggie burgers!

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 35 mins
• Total Time: 50 mins
• Calories: 101 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed
• 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
• 0.33333334326744 cup plain dried bread crumbs
• 1 ounce finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Trim woody ends from asparagus spears; cut in half if necessary to fit your pot.

Step 2

Bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil over high heat. Add asparagus and boil until slightly tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer asparagus to a bowl of very cold water; let soak until completely cool.

Step 3

Drain asparagus well, then cut into very small pieces. Transfer to a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Add bread crumbs, Pecorino Romano, and cayenne pepper. Mix in eggs, one at a time, until well combined.

Step 4

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Working in several batches, scoop some asparagus mixture into the hot skillet. Flatten mixture with a fork and cook until the bottom is browned, about 4 minutes. Flip and brown the other side, about 4 minutes more. Repeat to cook remaining patties.