Grilled Asparagus with Lemon-Herb Butter

Grilled asparagus is a classic summer side dish that's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe takes the classic up a notch with a flavorful lemon-herb butter that adds a bright and herbaceous flavor to the tender asparagus. The butter is made with fresh thyme, parsley, lemon juice, and butter, and it's brushed on the asparagus before grilling. The result is a dish that's both simple and sophisticated, and it's sure to impress your guests.

The history of grilled asparagus with lemon-herb butter is a long and winding one. It is believed that the dish was first created in the early 1900s by a chef at a restaurant in New York City. The chef was looking for a way to make a simple side dish that would be both flavorful and elegant. He experimented with different ingredients and techniques, and eventually came up with the recipe for grilled asparagus with lemon-herb butter. The dish quickly became a favorite of the restaurant's patrons, and it soon spread to other restaurants around the country. Today, grilled asparagus with lemon-herb butter is a classic side dish that is served in restaurants and homes all over the world.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 10 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the asparagus, olive oil, thyme, parsley, lemon juice, butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss to coat the asparagus evenly.
4. Grill the asparagus for 8-10 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately with additional lemon wedges, if desired.

Why It Works

• Grilling the asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and flavor.
• The lemon-herb butter adds a bright and herbaceous flavor to the asparagus.
• The butter helps to keep the asparagus moist and tender.