Grilled Spanish Asparagus with Manchego Cheese

Introduction

Grilled Spanish Asparagus with Manchego Cheese is a simple yet elegant dish that brings out the natural flavors of fresh asparagus. Lightly charred on the Arteflame grill and topped with nutty Manchego cheese, this dish is perfect as a side or appetizer. The Arteflame’s flat cooktop provides perfect heat control, ensuring a beautiful sear without burning.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, finely grated
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them inside the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light them.
3. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to heat up.

Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus

1. Rinse and pat dry the asparagus.
2. Toss with melted butter, sea salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Asparagus

1. Place the asparagus on the Arteflame’s flat cooktop, closer to the center for more heat.
2. Grill for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred.

Step 4: Add the Manchego Cheese

1. Remove the asparagus from the grill and transfer to a serving plate.
2. Sprinkle generously with grated Manchego cheese and smoked paprika.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

1. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy this Spanish-inspired delight.

Tips

• Use thick asparagus spears for better grilling results.
• For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus before serving.

Variations

1. Garlic Butter Asparagus: Add minced garlic to the melted butter for a rich, aromatic flavor.
2. Herbed Manchego Asparagus: Mix in fresh thyme or oregano before grilling.
3. Spicy Spanish Asparagus: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving for a little heat.
4. Citrus-Zested Asparagus: Add grated lemon or orange zest to the Manchego cheese before sprinkling.
5. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Wrap each spear with a slice of prosciutto before grilling.

Conclusion

With its smoky char and savory Manchego topping, this grilled Spanish asparagus is a perfect addition to any meal. Using the Arteflame grill ensures flawless grilling with no risk of burning. This dish is quick, easy, and elegant—ideal for casual BBQs or fancy dinner parties.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Spanish chorizo
• A glass of crisp white wine (Albariño or Verdejo)
• Grilled crusty bread with olive oil
• Patatas Bravas