Grilled Asparagus(From Cooking Light Magazine)
Tender grilled asparagus coated in a tangy balsamic and lemon marinade, perfect as a healthy side dish for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the grill or grill pan on the stove.
- Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus.
- Combine balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, soy sauce, and black pepper in a large zip-top plastic bag.
- Seal the bag and marinate the asparagus for 30 minutes.
- Remove the asparagus from the bag and discard the marinade.
- Place the asparagus on a grill rack coated with cooking spray.
- Grill for 5 minutes on each side or until the asparagus is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly grilled asparagus, look for firm, bright green stalks. If you prefer a slightly smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade. For a twist, substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option, or try using a splash of sesame oil for added depth. If you're in a hurry, skip marinating and drizzle the mixture directly on the asparagus before grilling.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled asparagus makes an excellent side dish for any protein, especially with Yummy Barbecue Ribs or grilled chicken. For a light meal, toss it into a salad or serve alongside a refreshing Great Salad Dressing. You can also pair it with quinoa or couscous for a wholesome grain dish, perfect for a summer barbecue or picnic.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the asparagus in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or microwave briefly until warmed through. Avoid reheating too long, as this can make the asparagus mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Asparagus(From Cooking Light Magazine) contains roughly 337 calories, with 13g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (103% of the Daily Value), iron (62% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 796mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
While fresh asparagus yields the best results, you can use frozen if needed. Thaw it first and pat it dry before marinating to ensure the flavors penetrate. However, grilling times may vary, so monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
What can I serve with grilled asparagus?
Grilled asparagus pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled salmon or chicken for a well-rounded meal. It also complements pasta dishes or can be added to a vegetable platter for a colorful presentation.
How do I know when the asparagus is done grilling?
The asparagus is done when it is tender but still slightly crisp, typically after about 5 minutes on each side. You can test it by piercing a stalk with a fork; it should give a little resistance but not be mushy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).