As the warm months approach, it's time to turn to the grill for a delightful summer treat. Welcome to a simple and delicious grilled asparagus recipe.
This recipe makes for an excellent side dish or even a main feature for those who love their greens.
It's not just about grilling asparagus, it's about enhancing its natural flavors with the right mix of seasonings, ending up with a dish that's truly mouthwatering. So, let's explore how to bring out the best in asparagus with our easy-to-follow recipe!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the delectable flavors it brings out of the asparagus. The grill adds a smoky note to the asparagus, while the olive oil and seasonings we use work to intensify its natural taste. This grilled asparagus recipe doesn't just cook the asparagus, it transforms it into a culinary delight that's tender, slightly charred, and full of flavor. It's a perfect blend of simplicity and taste that will make you appreciate asparagus in a whole new light.
Another wonderful thing about this recipe is its versatility. It works perfectly as a light, yet flavorful side dish, complementing any protein you choose, be it grilled chicken, steak, or fish. You could also toss it into a salad, use it as a pizza topping, or enjoy it on its own as a healthy snack. It's gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and low in calories, making it a suitable choice for various dietary needs. Furthermore, asparagus is packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamins A, C, E, and K, and folate, making this dish not just tasty, but also nourishing.
Ingredients
Asparagus - This vegetable is packed with nutrients and has a unique, savory flavor. If asparagus isn't available, you can substitute with broccolini or green beans.
Olive Oil - Extra virgin olive oil is great for grilling and adds a wonderful flavor. Sunflower or avocado oilcan be used as an alternative.
Garlic - Garlic adds a nice kick and aroma to the asparagus. If you're not a fan of garlic, you can use shallots or skip it altogether.
Salt -Enhances the natural flavors of the asparagus. You can also use sea salt or kosher salt.
Black Pepper - Gives a bit of spice to the dish. If you want to experiment, try using white or pink peppercorns as a substitute.
Tips
- Choose asparagus with firm, bright green stalks and compact tips. The thickness of the stalks should be consistent for even cooking.
- Do not overcook the asparagus. It should be tender but still have a bit of a crunch.
- If you're grilling outdoors, consider using a grill basket to prevent the asparagus from falling through the grates.
- If using thicker asparagus, you may want to peel the lower part of the stalks to ensure they're not tough.
- Don't forget to preheat your grill. A hot grill will give your asparagus nice grill marks and help it cook evenly.
How to serve
Grilled asparagus is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of mains. Its unique flavor and texture can add a touch of elegance to any meal.
- It makes a delightful side dish to a hearty steak, adding a healthy and savory element.
- Another idea is to chop it up and add it to a pasta dish, providing a nice contrast of textures.
- Lastly, you could use it to top off a fresh salad, giving it an extra crunch and a smoky, grilled flavor.
Similar Recipes
Grilled Asparagus
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Rinse the asparagus and trim the tough ends.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the asparagus, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until the asparagus is well coated.
- Place the asparagus on the grill (or in a grill basket) and cook for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.