Print

Crispy Grilled Asparagus Recipe with Easy Zesty Lemon Garlic Aioli

crispy grilled asparagus - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy grilled asparagus paired with a zesty lemon garlic aioli, perfect as a flavorful and light side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh asparagus, ends trimmed
  • 12 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large garlic clove, finely minced or grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (to loosen the aioli if needed)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the asparagus and pat dry. Trim about 1-2 inches off the woody ends. Lay them out on a plate or tray.
  2. Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons olive oil over the asparagus. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or chili flakes. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  3. Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  4. Arrange asparagus in a single layer perpendicular to the grill grates. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs, until edges are charred and asparagus is bright green with a slight snap.
  5. While asparagus grills, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. If too thick, whisk in a tablespoon of olive oil to loosen.
  6. Transfer grilled asparagus to a serving platter. Drizzle or dollop the lemon garlic aioli over the top or serve on the side. Garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Watch the asparagus closely to avoid flare-ups from oil. Turn often for even char without burning. For a smoother aioli, a food processor or immersion blender can be used but is not necessary. If no grill is available, roasting at 425°F for 10-12 minutes is a good alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled asparagus, lemon garlic aioli, quick side dish, healthy vegetables, summer grilling, easy recipe