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Crispy Grilled Asparagus with Toasted Almonds

crispy grilled asparagus with toasted almonds - featured image

A quick, healthy, and delicious side dish featuring tender grilled asparagus spears topped with nutty toasted almonds and a bright drizzle of lemon juice.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound asparagus spears, medium thickness
  • 1/3 cup sliced or slivered almonds (about 35 g)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (30 ml)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon, 15 ml)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse asparagus under cold water and pat dry. Snap off woody ends by bending each spear near the bottom until it breaks naturally.
  2. Place asparagus in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). If using a grill pan, heat on stovetop for about 5 minutes.
  4. Lay asparagus spears perpendicular to grill bars and grill for 3-4 minutes per side, turning once with tongs, until tender with crispy, slightly charred edges.
  5. While asparagus grills, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add almonds and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant (3-4 minutes).
  6. If using garlic, add minced clove to skillet for the last 30 seconds of toasting, stirring quickly to avoid burning.
  7. Transfer grilled asparagus to a serving platter. Sprinkle toasted almonds over the top, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, and add a final crack of black pepper.
  8. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For even cooking, start grilling thicker asparagus stalks a minute or two earlier. Use a dry pan for toasting almonds and stir frequently to avoid burning. Garlic is optional but adds nice aroma if added at the end of toasting. If no grill is available, roast asparagus at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes instead.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled asparagus, toasted almonds, healthy side dish, quick recipe, easy vegetables, vegan, gluten-free