Lemon Garlic Grilled Asparagus

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 8 min
🍽 Serves: 8

Lemon Garlic Grilled Asparagus is a vibrant, flavorful side dish that celebrates the fresh, crisp nature of asparagus. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate this green veggie to a new level of deliciousness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight meals.
  • Perfectly balances bright lemon and savory garlic flavors.
  • Grilling adds a delightful smoky char.
  • Healthy side dish that pairs with a variety of mains.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh asparagus
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

First, fire up your grill to a nice medium-high heat. This is where the magic happens, as the grill will give your asparagus that wonderful smoky char. While the grill is heating, take a moment to prep your asparagus. Trim off the woody ends — usually about an inch or so — to ensure every bite is tender and enjoyable.

In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This is your flavor powerhouse. Toss the asparagus into this mixture, making sure each spear is well-coated. This step is key for that even flavor distribution.

Now, it’s time to grill. Lay the asparagus on the grill in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly. Grill for about 6-8 minutes, turning them now and then to get a nice, even char. You’re looking for that perfect tender-crisp texture with a slight char on the outside.

Once they’re done, take them off the grill and serve immediately while they’re still hot and full of flavor. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

  • If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan on the stovetop can work wonders too.
  • Don’t skip on drying the asparagus after washing; it helps the oil and seasonings stick better.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon-garlic mixture.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled asparagus pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or salmon, making it a perfect complement to any BBQ spread. It also goes well with a creamy risotto or alongside a hearty pasta dish to add a refreshing contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
How do I know when the asparagus is done?
The asparagus should be tender-crisp with slight grill marks. It shouldn’t be mushy.
Can I prepare the asparagus in advance?
You can prep the asparagus and the lemon-garlic mixture in advance, but grill them right before serving for the best texture.

Ingredients Explained

Asparagus is the star of the show, offering a crisp texture and subtle, earthy flavor. You'll want fresh, firm stalks for the best results. Olive oil adds richness and helps the asparagus become beautifully charred on the grill. Garlic brings a warm, savory note that complements the asparagus perfectly. Using lemon zest and juice introduces a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the oil and garlic. A bit of salt enhances all the flavors, while black pepper adds a gentle kick of heat.

Simplified Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears.
3. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the asparagus in the lemon-garlic mixture until evenly coated.
5. Place the asparagus on the grill in a single layer.
6. Grill for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the asparagus is tender-crisp and slightly charred.
7. Remove the asparagus from the grill and serve immediately.

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