Transform your side dish game with this heart-healthy grilled asparagus recipe, bursting with vibrant flavors from fresh lemon zest, rich parmesan cheese, and a touch of garlic. Perfectly grilled to tender perfection, these asparagus stalks gain irresistible smoky char marks that enhance their natural sweetness. Tossed in heart-smart olive oil and seasoned with freshly ground black pepper and a hint of sea salt, this dish is as nutritious as it is flavorful. With only 10 minutes of prep time and 8 minutes on the grill, it's a quick and simple way to add elegance to your meals. Serve it warm as a bright and zesty accompaniment to your favorite healthy entrees, and savor the harmony of wholesome ingredients in every bite!
Start by preparing the asparagus. Trim the woody ends by gently bending the stalks until they naturally snap. Discard the ends.
Rinse the asparagus thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). If using an outdoor grill, ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, ensuring each stalk is evenly coated.
Place the asparagus in a single layer directly onto the preheated grill. Close the grill lid and cook for 4 minutes.
Using tongs, carefully turn the asparagus to ensure even grilling. Continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly charred.
While the asparagus grills, zest the lemon using a fine grater, ensuring to avoid the bitter white pith. Cut the lemon in half and reserve for juicing.
Once the asparagus is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter.
Immediately sprinkle the grilled asparagus with the freshly grated parmesan cheese and the lemon zest.
Finish by squeezing the juice of half the lemon over the asparagus for a bright, fresh flavor. Taste, and adjust with additional lemon juice, salt, or pepper if necessary.
Serve warm as a nutritious side dish alongside your favorite heart-healthy main courses.
Calories |
615 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 45.5 g | 58% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.0 g | 75% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 47 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 2093 mg | 91% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 26.7 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.3 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.9 g | ||
| Protein | 33.6 g | 67% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 784 mg | 60% | |
| Iron | 10.5 mg | 58% | |
| Potassium | 1100 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.