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Caesar Grilled Asparagus Recipe

4.6 from 113 reviews

This Caesar Grilled Asparagus recipe offers a delightful twist on classic Caesar salad by featuring tender charred asparagus spears served with a rich, tangy homemade Caesar dressing, Parmesan, and crispy grilled sourdough croutons. It’s a vibrant, satisfying side dish perfect for spring and summer meals.

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 to 3 slices sourdough or country-style bread
  • 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp. garlic powder

To Serve

  • 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 the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing until you’re ready to serve.
  2. Prep the Grill and Asparagus: Prepare your grill for high heat and preheat it for about 5 minutes, or heat a grill pan over high heat on the stovetop. On a large baking sheet, toss the trimmed asparagus with the freshly ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt to evenly coat. This seasoning enhances the natural flavors before grilling.
  3. Grill the Asparagus: Arrange the asparagus spears perpendicular to the grill grates to prevent them from falling through. Grill the asparagus, turning occasionally, until charred and tender, about 2 to 3 minutes on an outdoor grill or 3 to 4 minutes if using a grill pan. Once done, transfer the asparagus to a platter for serving.
  4. Prepare the Crouton Seasoning: Lower the grill heat to medium-low. In a small bowl, mix together the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Brush this seasoned oil onto both sides of the sourdough bread slices to flavor the croutons perfectly.
  5. Grill the Bread: Place the bread slices on the grill and toast, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Once toasted, transfer the bread to a plate and let it cool slightly so it crisps up further.
  6. Prepare the Croutons: Cut the grilled bread into cubes or tear it into bite-sized pieces for easy topping and serving.
  7. Assemble and Serve: Top the grilled asparagus with your desired amount of the Caesar dressing, sprinkle generously with the grilled bread croutons and finely grated Parmesan cheese. Serve the remaining dressing alongside for guests to add more if desired.

Notes

  • This recipe works well with an outdoor grill or a grill pan on the stovetop.
  • To keep asparagus from falling through grill grates, weave them perpendicular to the bars or use a grill basket.
  • You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing variation.
  • For extra flavor, sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper on top just before serving.
  • Leftover dressing keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Caesar asparagus, grilled asparagus, Caesar salad side, grilled vegetable recipe, asparagus recipe, summer side dish, homemade Caesar dressing