Battered Asparagus

1 pound asparagus
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon milk
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup fine bread crumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
salt and pepper
water

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the asparagus. Cook uncovered until bright green, then transfer to an ice bath to prevent further cooking.
2. Combine egg with milk in a bowl. Shake excess water off of the asparagus and dip into the egg and milk mixture, then into the bread crumbs.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the asparagus in batches, frying until lightly browned on all sides.
4. Transfer asparagus to paper towels and pat dry. Top immediately with parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper and serve.

Makes 4 servings