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Grilled Asparagus Recipe

Grilled Asparagus Recipe

Try this Grilled Asparagus Recipe. It is the best way to enjoy a fresh vegetable that features a tender center and a beautifully charred exterior.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 85 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound of fresh asparagus medium thickness is best.
  • 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil.
  • 2 cloves of garlic minced.
  • 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt.
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
  • 1 teaspoon of lemon zest.
  • 1 lemon cut into wedges (for serving).
  • 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze optional.

Instructions
 

Prep the Asparagus

  • Wash the asparagus under cold water. Snap off the woody bottom ends (about 1 to 2 inches) where they naturally break.

Heat the Grill

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.

Season the Spears

  • Place the asparagus on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss with minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Arrange on the Grates

  • Place the asparagus spears across the grill grates. Lay them perpendicular to the bars so they do not fall through.

Grill to Perfection

  • Grill for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs, until the spears are tender and have dark char marks.

Add the Citrus

  • Remove the asparagus from the heat and place them back on the tray. Sprinkle immediately with fresh lemon zest.

Garnish the Dish

  • Squeeze a fresh lemon wedge over the top and add a drizzle of balsamic glaze if you like a sweet finish.

Serve Hot

  • Plate the asparagus and serve while warm. They are the perfect partner for grilled chicken, steak, or fish.

Notes

  • Pick the right size. Choose spears that are medium thickness; very thin ones will burn too fast, and very thick ones can stay tough.
  • Snap, don't cut. If you bend the asparagus near the bottom, it will naturally snap at the point where the woody part ends.
  • Watch the clock. Asparagus cooks very quickly. Stay by the grill to ensure they remain "al dente" and do not turn mushy.
  • Preheat the grill. A hot grill is the secret to getting those beautiful dark char marks without overcooking the inside.
  • Layer the flavor. Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese right as they come off the grill adds a savory Southern-style touch.
  • Use a grill basket. If your asparagus are very thin, use a grill basket to keep them from slipping into the coals.
Keyword Grilled Asparagus Recipe