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Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest

Name: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh asparagus; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Posted on April 3, 2025

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There’s something magical about grilled asparagus with lemon zest. Picture this: tender, vibrant green spears kissed by the flames, their earthy aroma mingling with the bright zing of fresh lemon. Asparagus and Lemon Basil Rolls As you take a bite, the slight char adds a delightful crunch, while the citrus brings a refreshing burst that dances on your palate. Zesty Lemon Basil Rolls.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of springtime gatherings and backyard barbecues, where laughter fills the air, and the scent of grilling vegetables teases your senses. The anticipation builds as you imagine serving this colorful side at your next family feast or casual dinner party.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Grilled asparagus with lemon zest is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect side for any meal
Its bright flavor profile adds a zesty twist that complements various dishes beautifully
The vibrant green color makes it an eye-catching addition to your plate
It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed at picnics, barbecues, or even weekday dinners

I remember the first time I served grilled asparagus at a family gathering. My uncle’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, and he declared asparagus “actually edible” after one taste!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Asparagus: Look for firm, bright green spears with closed tips for the best texture and flavor.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors while grilling.
Lemon Zest: Freshly grated zest adds brightness; avoid bottled versions for the best taste.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning is key; use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for optimal flavor.
Parmesan Cheese (optional): Grated Parmesan can add a nutty richness if desired; sprinkle it on right before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Ensure it’s clean for those beautiful grill marks that scream “culinary success.”

Prep Your Asparagus: Wash and trim the tough ends of the asparagus. Aim for about one inch from the bottom to keep things tender and tasty.

Toss with Olive Oil and Seasoning: In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the asparagus. Sprinkle with salt and pepper while tossing gently until evenly coated.

Add Lemon Zest: Grate fresh lemon zest over the seasoned asparagus. The zest will cling beautifully to each spear, ensuring every bite is bright and flavorful.

Grill It Up!: Place asparagus directly on the grill grates perpendicular to them to prevent falling through. Grill for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp, turning occasionally for even cooking.

Serve and Enjoy!: Once perfectly grilled, remove from heat and serve immediately. If you like, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese right before diving in.

Grilled asparagus with lemon zest is not only simple but also brings that wow factor we all strive for in our culinary adventures! You’ll have everyone asking how you made such an impressive dish without breaking a sweat.

You Must Know

Grilled asparagus with lemon zest is a delightful dish that combines simplicity and elegance
The fresh, vibrant flavors make it a great side for any meal
This recipe is versatile enough to pair beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making your dinner table sing!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For the best results, start by preheating your grill while you prepare the asparagus. Toss the spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling them over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out lemon zest for other citrus zests like lime or orange. You can also add garlic powder or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Sauce. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover grilled asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave briefly or sauté on low heat to retain its texture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When grilling asparagus, choose thin spears for even cooking and better char
Always check for tenderness by piercing a spear with a fork
Letting them rest before serving enhances their flavor

Grilling asparagus always reminds me of summer cookouts where family gathered around the grill, laughing and sharing stories while waiting for that perfect charred veggie.

FAQs

FAQ

How do I know when my asparagus is done?

Asparagus is done when it’s tender but still has a slight crunch, usually after 5-7 minutes on the grill.

Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

For more inspiration, check out this Irish Soda Bread recipe recipe.

While fresh is best, you can grill frozen asparagus; just thaw and pat dry first.

What else can I add to grilled asparagus with lemon zest?

Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or balsamic glaze for an extra flavor kick!