Grilled Asparagus: A Perfect BBQ Side Dish for Veggie Lovers
When it comes to barbecues, the focus is often on meaty main
courses like juicy steaks and sizzling burgers. But let's not forget about the
delightful and healthy world of grilled vegetables. Grilled asparagus, in
particular, is a popular choice for those seeking a flavorful and nutritious
BBQ side dish. Its vibrant green color, tender texture, and smoky flavor make
it a winning addition to any summer gathering. In this recipe, we'll show you
how to create perfectly grilled asparagus that will impress your guests and
elevate your barbecue experience.
Ingredients:
- 1
bunch of fresh asparagus spears
- 2
tablespoons olive oil
- 2
cloves of garlic, minced
- 1
teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2
teaspoon salt
- 1/4
teaspoon black pepper
- Optional:
freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare
the asparagus:
- Start
by rinsing the asparagus spears under cold water and pat them dry with a
kitchen towel.
- Trim
the tough ends of the asparagus by cutting about 1-2 inches off the
bottom. You can do this by bending each spear until it snaps naturally at
the tender point.
- Marinate
the asparagus:
- In
a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and
black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
- Place
the trimmed asparagus spears in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the
marinade over the asparagus, making sure all the spears are coated
evenly. Allow the asparagus to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb
the flavors.
- Preheat
the grill:
- Preheat
your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, wait until the
coals are hot and covered with white ash before proceeding.
- Grill
the asparagus:
- Place
the marinated asparagus directly on the grill grates, perpendicular to
the grates to prevent them from falling through.
- Grill
the asparagus for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are tender
with some char marks. Rotate them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Be
mindful not to overcook the asparagus, as they can become mushy. You want
them to remain slightly crisp.
- Serve
and enjoy:
- Once
the asparagus is done, transfer them to a serving platter. Optionally,
sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added
flavor.
- Grilled
asparagus is best enjoyed immediately while still warm. Serve them as a
standalone side dish or alongside your favorite grilled meats. They also
make a great addition to salads or pasta dishes.
Grilled asparagus is an absolute delight that brings
freshness and elegance to any BBQ spread. Its natural flavors combined with the
smoky notes from the grill create a mouthwatering combination that will impress
your guests. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes on the grill,
you can elevate your barbecue game and provide a healthy option for your
vegetarian or health-conscious friends. So fire up that grill, gather your
loved ones, and savor the goodness of perfectly grilled asparagus this summer!