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Perfect Grilled Asparagus Recipe with Lemon Butter Sauce

grilled asparagus lemon butter sauce - featured image

A simple and quick grilled asparagus recipe featuring a bright and silky lemon butter sauce that enhances the natural flavor of asparagus with a tender-crisp bite and smoky char.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 55 g)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about half a lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound (450 g) of fresh asparagus under cold water. Trim about 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) off the tough ends by bending each stalk gently near the base until it snaps naturally. Pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
  2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 4 tablespoons (55 g) of unsalted butter. Add 1 minced garlic clove and cook gently for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon lemon zest. Season lightly with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside, keeping warm.
  3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If using charcoal, ensure the coals are hot and covered with white ash.
  4. Place the asparagus on a plate or tray. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil and sprinkle lightly with sea salt. Toss gently with your hands or tongs to coat evenly.
  5. Arrange the asparagus spears perpendicular to the grill grates to prevent slipping. Grill for about 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs, until tender but still crisp with grill marks. Adjust time based on stalk thickness.
  6. Transfer the grilled asparagus to a serving dish. Drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce over the top, coating each spear. Optionally, finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt or freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Dry asparagus thoroughly before grilling to ensure good charring. Use fresh lemon zest for best flavor. Watch grill heat carefully to avoid burning. For vegan adaptation, substitute butter with plant-based spread and lemon juice with white balsamic vinegar if desired. Roasting at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes is a good alternative if no grill is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled asparagus, lemon butter sauce, easy side dish, summer vegetables, healthy recipe, quick asparagus recipe