Grilled Delaware Asparagus with Lemon Butter

Introduction

Delight in the fresh flavors of Delaware farm asparagus, grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill and drizzled with rich, tangy lemon butter. This simple but sophisticated dish highlights the natural sweetness of asparagus while adding a touch of smoky char that elevates its taste. Perfect as a side dish or a light appetizer, this recipe is easy to prepare and complements any grilled entrée.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch fresh Delaware asparagus
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is hot and ready for grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the asparagus

1. Trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears.
2. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Brush the asparagus with a bit of the seasoned butter mixture, reserving the rest for serving.

Step 3: Grill the asparagus

1. Place the asparagus on the Arteflame's flat griddle cooktop near the center for a higher heat sear.
2. Cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping occasionally until slightly charred and tender-crisp.

Step 4: Drizzle with lemon butter

1. Transfer the grilled asparagus to a serving plate.
2. Drizzle with the remaining lemon butter sauce.
3. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Tips

• For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving.
• Adjust cook time based on asparagus thickness; thin spears cook faster.
• Grill other vegetables alongside asparagus for a complete dish.

Variations

1. Parmesan Garlic Asparagus: Add 1 tbsp grated Parmesan and 1/2 tsp minced garlic to the butter mixture.
2. Spicy Chili Asparagus: Mix in 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes and a dash of smoked paprika.
3. Honey Glazed Asparagus: Stir in 1 tsp honey for a touch of sweetness.
4. Balsamic Glazed Asparagus: Drizzle with a balsamic reduction instead of lemon butter.
5. Sesame Ginger Asparagus: Use sesame oil instead of butter and add 1/2 tsp grated ginger.

Conclusion

Grilled Delaware asparagus with lemon butter is an easy yet flavorful dish that brings out the best in fresh, farm-grown asparagus. The natural sweetness and smokiness from the grill blend beautifully with the bright citrus butter sauce for a side dish that pairs well with any main course.

Best Pairings

• Grilled steak – The smoky asparagus complements a juicy, seared steak.
• Grilled salmon – The acidity of lemon butter balances the richness of salmon.
• Roasted potatoes – Their hearty texture pairs beautifully with the tender-crisp asparagus.
• Chilled white wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the citrusy notes.