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Caesar Grilled Asparagus Recipe

4.8 from 60 reviews

This Caesar Grilled Asparagus recipe combines the smoky charred flavor of grilled asparagus with a rich, tangy Caesar dressing. Complemented by crispy herb-seasoned sourdough croutons and plenty of freshly grated Parmesan, this dish makes a delightful and elegant side perfect for summer barbecues or a sophisticated appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

  • 1 1/2 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 3/4 cup)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp. anchovy paste
  • 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp. kosher salt

Asparagus and Seasoning

  • 2 lb. asparagus, trimmed
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided

Croutons

  • 2 (or more) slices sourdough or country-style bread
  • 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp. garlic powder

For Serving

  • Finely grated Parmesan, for serving

Instructions

  1. Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the finely grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, freshly ground black pepper, and kosher salt until smooth and fully combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate until ready to use, allowing the flavors to meld.
  2. Prepare the Grill and Asparagus: Preheat your grill for high heat for about 5 minutes or alternatively heat a grill pan over high heat. On a large baking sheet, toss the trimmed asparagus with freshly ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt to evenly coat.
  3. Grill the Asparagus: Place the asparagus on the grill perpendicular to the grates to prevent them from falling through. Grill, turning occasionally, until they are nicely charred and tender. This will take about 2 to 3 minutes on an outdoor grill or 3 to 4 minutes if using a grill pan. Once grilled, transfer the asparagus to a platter.
  4. Season and Grill the Bread: Reduce the grill heat to medium-low. In a small bowl, mix together Italian seasoning, garlic powder, the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Brush this seasoned oil generously on both sides of the sourdough bread slices. Place the bread on the grill and toast, turning occasionally until golden and crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. Prepare Croutons and Assemble: Cut or tear the toasted bread into bite-sized cubes. To serve, drizzle the grilled asparagus with desired amounts of the Caesar dressing, scatter the homemade croutons over the top, and add a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan. Serve the remaining dressing on the side for extra flavor.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit anchovy paste and Worcestershire sauce or substitute with vegetarian alternatives.
  • Use fresh, firm asparagus for the best grilling results.
  • Adjust the level of garlic and anchovy paste in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.
  • If an outdoor grill is not available, a grill pan or broiler can be good substitutes for grilling.
  • Day-old or slightly stale bread works best for making croutons as it crisps up nicely without becoming soggy.
  • To enhance flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished asparagus just before serving.

Keywords: Caesar asparagus, grilled asparagus, croutons, grilled side dish, easy asparagus recipe, grilled vegetables, summer side dish, homemade Caesar dressing