Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Feta Recipe
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Feta is a vibrant and healthy Mediterranean-inspired side dish featuring fresh asparagus lightly charred on the grill. Enhanced with bright lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and creamy, salty feta cheese, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Quick to prepare and cook in under 20 minutes, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian meals, ideal for spring and summer dining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Asparagus
- 1 ½ pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Lemon and Cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F, to prepare for grilling the asparagus properly.
- Prepare the Asparagus: Trim the woody ends from the asparagus by snapping or cutting off about 1–2 inches from the bottom to ensure tender stalks.
- Season: Place the asparagus on a large tray and drizzle with olive oil. Toss the asparagus to coat evenly, then sprinkle with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and minced garlic if using for added flavor.
- Grill: Arrange the asparagus perpendicular to the grill grates or place in a grill basket. Grill for 6–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the asparagus is tender-crisp and shows light char marks indicating perfect grilling.
- Add Lemon: Remove the asparagus from the grill and immediately sprinkle with fresh lemon zest and drizzle with fresh lemon juice to add brightness and acidity.
- Finish with Feta: Top the grilled asparagus with crumbled feta cheese and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful side dish.
Notes
- You can omit garlic and red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Grill asparagus perpendicular to grates to prevent them from falling through or use a grill basket.
- Adjust grilling time based on thickness of asparagus stalks to avoid overcooking.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings.
