Charred Asparagus with Parmesan - Illinois Grilled Delight

Introduction

Fire up your Arteflame grill and get ready to make the best grilled asparagus you've ever tasted! Using the flat griddle cooktop, this recipe ensures a perfectly even char without burning your asparagus. Topped with fresh Parmesan cheese, this dish is simple yet full of flavor. Pair it with a delicious steak, also seared on the Arteflame at 1,000°F for a steakhouse-quality meal. Let's get grilling!

Ingredients

• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
4. Allow the grill to heat up for approximately 20 minutes until the flat top cooktop is hot and ready.

Step 2: Prepare the asparagus

1. Rinse and trim the woody ends of the asparagus.
2. Place the asparagus in a bowl and toss with melted butter, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Grill the asparagus

1. Place the asparagus on the hot flat griddle cooktop near the center for higher heat.
2. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are nicely charred but still crisp.

Step 4: Finish with Parmesan

1. Remove asparagus from the grill and place on a serving plate.
2. Sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.

Tips

• For extra flavor, brush the asparagus with garlic butter before grilling.
• Grill asparagus alongside your steak so everything is ready at the same time.
• Move asparagus towards the outer edge of the cooktop if they start to cook too fast.

Variations

1. Spicy Charred Asparagus: Add crushed red pepper flakes and a dash of smoked paprika before grilling.
2. Lemon-Garlic Asparagus: Toss asparagus with minced garlic and lemon zest before grilling.
3. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Wrap each asparagus spear with prosciutto before grilling for a salty, crispy variation.
4. Balsamic-Glazed Asparagus: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the asparagus just before serving.
5. Herb Butter Asparagus: Mix melted butter with fresh chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, and basil before tossing with asparagus.

Conclusion

Grilling asparagus on the Arteflame grill is one of the easiest and tastiest ways to enjoy fresh vegetables. The even heat of the cooktop ensures a delicious char without burning, while the Parmesan and lemon add the perfect finishing touch. Serve it alongside a perfectly seared steak or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Ribeye Steak: Reverse-seared on the Arteflame for a perfect steakhouse result.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp: A seafood option that grills beautifully next to asparagus.
• Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Great for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
• Sourdough Garlic Bread: Toasted on the flat cooktop for crispy perfection.
• Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the flavors beautifully.