Lemon Herb Grilled Asparagus

πŸ•’ Prep: 5 min
πŸ”₯ Cook: 7 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking for a quick and healthy side dish that screams freshness, this Lemon Herb Grilled Asparagus is your go-to. With a citrusy zing and aromatic herbs, it's perfect for grilling season or whenever you need a breath of bright flavors.

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Grilled Asparagus

Asparagus: The star of the dish; choose firm, bright green spears for the best texture. Olive oil: Helps in grilling and adds a subtle richness. Use a good quality one for better flavor. Lemon juice and zest: Provide a fresh, tangy kick. The zest packs a punch, so don’t skip it! Dried thyme and oregano: These herbs bring a Mediterranean touch, enhancing the asparagus's flavor without overpowering it. Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a grill basket if you're worried about losing spears through the grates.
  • Zest the lemon before juicing for ease and efficiency.
  • Test one spear for tenderness before removing all from the grill.
  • If you prefer, fresh herbs can be used; just double the quantity.

Serving Suggestions

This asparagus pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or salmon for a light and healthy meal. You can also serve it alongside a creamy risotto or pasta for a more indulgent option. For a touch of decadence, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Just remember that fresh herbs are less concentrated, so you might want to use about double the amount.
How can I tell when the asparagus is done?
Look for spears that are bright green with a slight char. They should be tender but not mushy.
Can this be made in the oven?
Yes, you can roast the asparagus at 400Β°F for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through.

Lemon Herb Grilled Asparagus Recipe Walkthrough

Start by firing up your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to char the asparagus without burning it. While the grill heats up, grab your asparagus. Snap off the woody ends β€” they usually break at just the right spot β€” and toss the trimmed spears into a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and zest with the thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour this fragrant mix over the asparagus, and toss everything until the spears are well coated. Lay the asparagus directly on the grill grates in a single layer. Let them cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally to make sure they grill evenly. You're looking for a bright green color with a slight char. Once they're tender and nicely marked, remove them from the grill and serve while they're still warm.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy, taking only about 10 minutes on the grill.
  • Bursting with fresh, zesty flavors that complement any main dish.
  • Minimal cleanup, as you can prep and grill without extra dishes.
  • Perfect for outdoor grilling but can be adapted for indoor grilling too.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh asparagus
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Trim the ends of the asparagus and place them in a large bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the olive oil mixture over the asparagus and toss to coat evenly.
5. Place the asparagus directly on the grill grates and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
6. Remove from the grill and serve immediately.

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