Grilled Lemon Garlic Asparagus

Name: Grilled Lemon Garlic Asparagus
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh asparagus (trimmed); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

🕒 Prep: 5 min

🔥 Cook: 8 min

🍽 Serves: 4

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Grilled Lemon Garlic Asparagus is a vibrant, fresh side dish that’s perfect for any BBQ or family dinner. With the bright zing of lemon and the savory warmth of garlic, these asparagus spears are sure to become a staple in your grilling repertoire.

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Ingredients for Grilled Lemon Garlic Asparagus

Asparagus: The star of the show, asparagus offers a tender yet crisp bite. Choose bright green stalks for the best flavor.

Olive oil: Helps the asparagus grill evenly and adds a subtle richness. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its robust flavor.

Lemon: Both the zest and juice bring a fresh, tangy brightness that complements the smokiness from the grill.

Garlic: Minced garlic infuses each spear with aromatic depth. Use fresh garlic for the best results.

Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.

Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a savory, nutty finish if you're looking to elevate the dish further.

Tips & Tricks

Trim the woody ends of the asparagus by bending each stalk until it snaps naturally — it’ll break at just the right spot.
If you’re unsure about grilling directly on the grates, use a grill basket to prevent any spears from falling through.
For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile side for any grilled main course. Alternatively, toss it into a salad for a light, refreshing meal. It's also a great addition to a brunch spread, served alongside eggs and toast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen asparagus?: Fresh asparagus is best for grilling, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry before marinating to prevent sogginess.
How do I know when the asparagus is done?: Look for grill marks and a bright green color. The spears should be tender but still have a slight crunch.

Grilled Lemon Garlic Asparagus Recipe Walkthrough

First, you’ll want to get your grill preheating to medium-high heat. This usually takes about 10 minutes, which is perfect timing for preparing your asparagus.

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Give it a quick whisk to mix everything together into a bright, aromatic marinade.

Add the asparagus to the bowl and toss them gently. You want each spear to be well-coated with the mixture, so they soak up all that lovely flavor.

Once your grill is hot, place the asparagus spears directly onto the grill grates. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes, making sure to turn them occasionally. You’re aiming for them to be tender with a slightly charred finish.

Remove the asparagus from the grill and, if desired, sprinkle them with Parmesan cheese while they’re still warm, so it melts a bit. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy — ready in under 20 minutes.
Perfectly balanced flavors with a citrusy kick.
Minimal ingredients, big impact.
Grilled to perfection for a smoky finish.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh asparagus (trimmed)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 lemon (zested and juiced)

2 cloves garlic (minced)

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.

3. Add the asparagus to the bowl and toss to coat all spears evenly.

4. Place the asparagus directly on the grill grates and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.