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As summer approaches, the allure of grilling becomes irresistible, and there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with fresh, vibrant vegetables. Among these, asparagus stands out not only for its unique flavor but also for its versatility on the grill. Zesty Citrus Grilled Asparagus Spears offers a delightful combination of tangy citrus and smoky grill flavors that elevate this green delicacy to new heights. This dish is perfect as a side for barbecues, picnics, or even a light main course, making it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors while indulging in healthy, delicious food.

Tangy Grilled Asparagus Spears

Celebrate summer with Zesty Citrus Grilled Asparagus Spears, a vibrant and healthy dish that brings fresh flavors to your grilling table. This recipe highlights fresh asparagus, enhanced with a tangy citrus marinade, and grilled to perfection for a smoky, tender treat. Full of vitamins and antioxidants, this dish is not only delicious but packed with health benefits. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a light main course, it's a must-try for vegetable lovers!

Ingredients
  

1 lb fresh asparagus spears, trimmed

3 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 1 lemon

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prep the Asparagus: Start by carefully trimming the tough ends of the asparagus spears, making sure to keep the spears whole for grilling.

    Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until well combined.

      Marinate the Asparagus: Add the trimmed asparagus spears to the marinade in the bowl. Toss the asparagus well so that every spear is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes at room temperature to enhance the flavors.

        Preheat the Grill: While the asparagus is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan indoors, heat the pan over medium heat.

          Grill the Asparagus: Once the grill is hot, place the marinated asparagus spears directly onto the grill grates. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the asparagus is tender and has nice grill marks.

            Serve: Remove the asparagus from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining marinade if desired and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.

              Enjoy: Serve the tangy grilled asparagus immediately as a delightful side dish or an appetizer, perfect for any summer gathering or as a fresh complement to your favorite grilled meats.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4