Asparagus is one of the first seasonal plants to arrive each spring, in your garden and also at the market. If you have asparagus planted in your garden, they are a perennial and will produce year after year, but it does take 2-3 years for the plants to start producing. Asparagus, like most of our vegetables, are best eaten in-season, when they are fresh and locally grown. Grilled asparagus are the perfect springtime side dish at your next barbecue.
Asparagus is best prepared simply to fully enjoy the delicate flavour. Simply remove the dry end by holding the spear in both hands and snapping as little of the bottom off as possible. The fresher the spear the less needs to be removed. If planning for grilled asparagus…or any asparagus recipe…it’s best to allow ¼ lb per person.
- 1 lb fresh asparagus
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- (zest is tiny strips of the outer, coloured layer of the lemon skin)
- Preheat the barbecue grill on high for 10 minutes
- Brush the asparagus spears lightly with olive oil
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper
- Place on grill on an angle and cook for approximately 8 minutes turning once or twice until they are fork tender
- Remove to a platter and sprinkle with lemon juice and zest
- Season to taste
- Enjoy!
This recipe can be prepared in a cast iron frying pan, if it is still a little chilly for a BBQ.
What is your favourite way to prepare asparagus? Do you have any planted in your garden? Leave a comment and let us know!
*Plant to Plate is sponsored by Wile’s Lake Farm Market located in Wileville, Nova Scotia. Wile’s Lake Farm Market have asparagus plants available now at the market and fresh asparagus when available . Their knowledgeable staff is always available to answer any questions you may have.
Omg, that looks delicious! Can’t wait to try this out!