Grilled Lemon Garlic Asparagus
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.
Grilled Lemon Garlic Asparagus 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 Ideas for Grilled Lemon Garlic Asparagus
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 This Grilled Lemon Garlic Asparagus Works
- 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.
- 5. Remove from the grill and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- 6. Serve immediately while warm.