Are you ready to transform a simple vegetable into a restaurant-worthy side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds? This Easy Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan recipe is about to become your new summer grilling sensation! Imagine tender, charred asparagus spears kissed by the grill's flames, topped with a sprinkle of savory Parmesan cheese that melts just perfectly – it's a culinary magic trick that takes mere minutes to prepare and delivers maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly under cool running water, removing any dirt or debris. Trim the tough woody ends by holding each spear and gently bending - they will naturally snap at the point where the tender part meets the tough part.
- Pat the asparagus dry completely with clean paper towels. This helps the olive oil adhere better and ensures proper grilling.
- Place the asparagus in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Gently toss to coat each spear evenly, ensuring all sides are lightly covered with oil.
- Season the oiled asparagus with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the asparagus perpendicular to the grill grates to prevent them from falling through. Create a single layer without overcrowding.
- Grill the asparagus for 3-4 minutes on the first side, rotating occasionally to ensure even charring and prevent burning.
- Flip the asparagus and continue grilling for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp and have nice grill marks.
- Remove the grilled asparagus from the heat and immediately transfer to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot asparagus, allowing the residual heat to slightly melt the cheese.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnishing with additional fresh cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Make sure to pat your asparagus completely dry before oiling and grilling. Excess water can prevent those beautiful grill marks and prevent proper caramelization.
- Grill Orientation Matters: Always place asparagus perpendicular to the grill grates to prevent them from falling through and to create those stunning crosshatch grill marks.
- Watch the Heat: Medium-high heat is crucial. Too low, and you'll steam the asparagus; too high, and you'll burn them. Aim for that perfect 400-450°F sweet spot.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give each asparagus spear some breathing room on the grill. Overcrowding prevents proper charring and even cooking.
- Cheese Timing is Key: Sprinkle the Parmesan immediately after grilling so the residual heat can slightly melt the cheese, creating a luxurious coating.Pro Bonus Tip: If you don't have a grill, this recipe works equally well on a grill pan or under the broiler. The key is high, direct heat and careful watching!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg
