If you’re looking for a quick and delicious side dish, this grilled asparagus recipe will become your new favorite. The asparagus is tender yet crisp, infused with garlic and topped with parmesan, making it a perfect complement to any main course.
Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of asparagus, and combined with the savory notes of garlic and the richness of parmesan, it creates a delightful flavor that’s hard to resist. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also brings a fresh, vibrant touch to your dinner table.
The Appeal of Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus presents a delightful balance of taste and presentation. The vibrant green spears, kissed by the grill, highlight the natural beauty of this vegetable, transforming it into an eye-catching side dish.
When grilled, asparagus develops a slight char, enhancing its earthy flavor while preserving its tender crunch. This dish serves not only as a visual treat but also as a nutritious addition to any meal.
Choosing the Right Asparagus
Selecting fresh asparagus is key to achieving the best results. Look for spears that are bright green with tight, compact tips, ensuring they are at their peak freshness.
Thicker spears can provide a meatier texture, while thinner ones might offer a more delicate bite. Regardless of the variety, freshness plays a crucial role in flavor and texture.
Perfecting the Marinade
To elevate grilled asparagus, a simple marinade does wonders. Mixing olive oil with minced garlic not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful sheen to the spears.
Seasoning with salt and pepper before grilling allows the flavors to penetrate the asparagus, ensuring each bite is packed with taste. The olive oil promotes even cooking, helping to achieve that perfect char.
The Grilling Process
Grilling asparagus requires attention to detail for optimal results. Preheating the grill to medium-high heat is essential, allowing the spears to cook evenly.
Once placed on the grill, turning them occasionally ensures that every side receives the same level of heat and char. The cooking time is brief, usually around 5 to 7 minutes, making this dish both quick and satisfying.
As the asparagus comes off the grill, sprinkling grated parmesan cheese while still hot allows it to melt slightly, creating a savory layer that enhances the dish.
Accompanying the asparagus with lemon wedges not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a refreshing tang that complements the savory flavors beautifully. This makes each bite a harmonious blend of tastes.
Presentation Matters
The way grilled asparagus is presented can elevate the dining experience. Arranging the spears artfully on a rustic wooden board or platter adds warmth and invites guests to partake.
Consider adding a few lemon wedges around the asparagus, which not only serves as a garnish but also suggests a burst of freshness ready to be squeezed over the dish. This small detail can make a big difference in the overall appeal.
The Perfect Grilled Asparagus Recipe
This grilled asparagus dish is a healthy, flavorful side that features fresh asparagus spears tossed with olive oil, minced garlic, and sprinkled with parmesan cheese. It’s slightly charred with a smoky flavor and a satisfying crunch, making it a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus under cold water and trim the woody ends.
- Marinate: In a bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the asparagus on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and slightly charred.
- Add Cheese: Remove the asparagus from the grill and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese while still hot.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving plate and serve warm with lemon wedges if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 90kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 6g