Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest - North Carolina Style

Introduction

When it comes to fresh, vibrant side dishes, this grilled asparagus with lemon zest is a flavor-packed favorite. Using the Arteflame Grill, we take advantage of its flat top cooktop to sear asparagus to perfection. The natural sugars in the asparagus caramelize slightly on the hot steel surface, while butter and lemon zest add brightness and richness. It's a fantastic way to bring out the best in seasonal vegetables — North Carolina-style.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
4. Wait about 20 minutes until the grill's flat top is hot — you’re ready to cook.

Step 2: Prep the asparagus

1. Rinse and trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears.
2. In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with melted butter, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Make sure each spear is evenly coated.

Step 3: Grill the asparagus on the flat cooktop

1. Place the asparagus spears in a single layer on the Arteflame flat top cooktop closer to the center for higher heat.
2. Grill for 4–7 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and slightly charred.
3. Move spears toward the outer part of the cooktop if they brown too quickly.

Step 4: Serve

1. Transfer grilled asparagus to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with additional lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.
3. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips

• Use thick spears for better grilling control; thinner spears cook faster and may burn.
• Don’t overcrowd the cooktop; give each spear space to sear for better texture and caramelization.
• Taste before serving — a touch more salt or lemon juice may enhance the final dish.

Variations

1. Garlic Butter Asparagus: Add 1 minced garlic clove to the melted butter for a savory twist.
2. Parmesan Asparagus: After grilling, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Balsamic Glazed Asparagus: Drizzle with a reduction of balsamic vinegar just before serving.
4. Spicy Asparagus: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for heat.
5. Asian-Inspired Asparagus: Toss with sesame oil instead of butter and garnish with sesame seeds and a squeeze of lime.

Best pairings

• Grilled ribeye or NY strip steak (use the center grill grate for 1,000°F sear)
• Grilled lemon garlic shrimp skewers
• Roasted fingerling potatoes on the outer rim of the flat top cooktop
• Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for wine pairing
• Lemon herb aioli as a dipping sauce

Conclusion

Grilling asparagus on the Arteflame brings out incredible flavor, and the even searing on the flat top yields crispy-tender perfection. The lemon zest livens up the dish, making it the perfect North Carolina BBQ side. Quick to prep, fast to grill, and clean-up free — this will become one of your go-to grilled vegetable recipes.