Description
This Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Feta recipe offers a bright, fresh side dish perfect for any meal. Tender yet crisp asparagus is char-grilled to perfection, then enhanced with zesty lemon, creamy feta, and an optional touch of garlic and red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, this recipe is ideal for spring and summer gatherings or as a healthy addition to your everyday menu.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 ½ pounds fresh asparagus (trimmed)
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic (minced) (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F, to ensure it’s hot enough to sear the asparagus and create delicious char marks.
- Prepare the Asparagus: Trim the woody ends of the asparagus by snapping or cutting off about 1 to 2 inches from the bottom to remove the tough parts.
- Season: Place the asparagus on a large tray and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly, then sprinkle with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and minced garlic if using, ensuring each stalk is well-seasoned.
- Grill: Arrange the asparagus perpendicular to the grill grates or place them in a grill basket. Grill for 6 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the asparagus is tender-crisp with light char marks for the perfect smoky flavor.
- Add Lemon: Remove the grilled asparagus from the heat and immediately sprinkle with lemon zest and drizzle with fresh lemon juice to add a bright, citrusy freshness.
- Finish with Feta: Top the asparagus with crumbled feta cheese and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for a flavorful, elegant side dish.
Notes
- For a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic before adding it.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broil the asparagus in the oven.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.
- Grilled asparagus pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
