Grilled Asparagus

Grilled Asparagus

4 servings
This grilled asparagus recipe is so simple, but it delivers big Mediterranean flavor. It’s a perfect side dish for grilled meats, tossed into salads, or served as part of a mezze spread!

Ingredients

  • asparagus

    woody ends trimmed

    1 lb
  • extra virgin olive oil

    plus more to serve

    2 tbsp
  • garlic clove

    grated or finely minced

    1
  • zest and juice of lemon
    1
  • kosher salt
  • freshly ground black pepper
  • aleppo pepper)

    (optional

  • chopped fresh parsley or mint

Directions

  1. 1

    Get ready. Light your charcoal or preheat your grill for medium-high, direct heat. If using a grill basket, preheat it along with the grill. Set a serving platter nearby.

  2. 2

    Season the asparagus. On a rimmed baking sheet, drizzle the asparagus with extra virgin olive oil. Add the garlic, lemon zest, a generous pinch each of kosher salt and black pepper. Toss to coat the asparagus evenly.

  3. 3

    Grill the asparagus. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Arrange the asparagus spears in a single layer, perpendicular to the grill grates so they don’t fall through. Grill for 4 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred in spots and just tender. Thinner spears and the asparagus tips will cook faster than the thicker ends. Transfer the grilled asparagus to a serving platter as they are done.

  4. 4

    Finish and serve. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and finish with another drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper, if using, and chopped parsley or mint. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled Asparagus

10 min4 servings86 cal

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About this Recipe

Looking for the simplest way to transform fresh asparagus into a show-stopping side dish? This grilled asparagus recipe delivers incredible, big Mediterranean flavor in just minutes, perfect for elevating any meal without the fuss. You'll achieve vibrant, tender-crisp results that taste far more complex than the effort required.

The genius of this recipe lies in its elegant simplicity and the thoughtful combination of fresh ingredients. By combining bright lemon zest and juice with pungent garlic and rich extra virgin olive oil, the natural sweetness of the asparagus is beautifully enhanced, creating a harmonious balance that truly sings on your palate. The optional aleppo pepper adds a subtle, fruity warmth that sets this dish apart.

When you prepare this grilled asparagus, you can expect spears that are tender yet still have a satisfying bite. Each piece will be infused with a zesty, savory depth from the lemon and garlic, perfectly complemented by a final flourish of fresh, aromatic parsley or mint. The aleppo pepper, if used, introduces a mild, nuanced heat that awakens the senses without overwhelming the delicate vegetable. This dish offers a wonderful textural contrast and a burst of fresh flavor, making it an excellent addition to any menu.

Customizing this simple side is easy. While fresh parsley or mint offer the best vibrant finish, feel free to use your favorite tender herbs. If you're sensitive to heat, simply omit the aleppo pepper; conversely, if you love a kick, you could add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount of lemon juice and garlic to suit your personal preference for brightness and pungency.

This versatile grilled asparagus makes an exceptional companion to grilled meats, adding a fresh and healthy counterpoint. It's equally at home tossed into a hearty salad for added texture and flavor, or presented beautifully as a vital component of a colorful mezze spread. Its bright profile makes it suitable for almost any occasion.

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