Grilled Asparagus and Arugula Salad for Cookouts
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Grilled asparagus brings smoky char to peppery arugula in this fresh cookout salad. It’s ready in 20 minutes and won’t wilt in the heat like other greens.
The lemon vinaigrette ties everything together while toasted pine nuts add crunch. You’ll have a side dish that actually complements your grilled meats instead of competing with them.
Why Asparagus Grills Better Than Other Vegetables
Asparagus holds up to high heat without turning mushy because of its fibrous structure. The spears develop beautiful char marks while staying crisp-tender inside.
Choose medium-thick spears for grilling – thin ones cook too fast and thick ones stay tough. Look for tight tips and firm stalks without wrinkled skin. You’ll snap off the woody ends naturally where they break when bent.
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Grilled Asparagus and Arugula Salad for Cookouts
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings: 6
Equipment Needed
- Grill or grill pan
- Large rimmed baking sheet
- Small dry skillet
- Whisk
- Small bowl
Instructions
- Season asparagus: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Toss asparagus with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large rimmed baking sheet until evenly coated.
- Toast pine nuts: Toast pine nuts in a small dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant. Transfer to a plate and let cool.
- Grill asparagus: Grill asparagus for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once halfway through, until spears are tender-crisp and have char marks. The tips should be slightly crispy and stalks should give slightly when pressed with tongs.
- Make dressing: Whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Slowly drizzle in extra-virgin olive oil while whisking constantly until emulsified.
- Assemble salad: Arrange arugula on a large serving platter. Top with grilled asparagus, toasted pine nuts, and shaved Parmesan. Drizzle with dressing and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories: 185 kcal
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 4mg
Sodium: 285mg
Total Carbs: 7g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 6g
