Balsamic Glazed Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan and Basil is a dish that captures the essence of spring and summer dining, marrying the natural, earthy flavors of asparagus with the rich complexity of balsamic glaze, complemented by the umami of Parmesan cheese and the fresh, aromatic presence of basil. This dish stands as a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking, transforming a handful of quality ingredients into a side dish that can elevate any meal to gourmet status.
At the heart of this dish is the fresh asparagus, chosen for its vibrant green color, crisp texture, and slight earthy flavor, which is both versatile and distinct. Asparagus is celebrated in cuisines worldwide for its nutritional benefits and its ability to signal the arrival of spring. In this recipe, the asparagus spears are grilled to perfection, a cooking method that enhances their natural sweetness and imparts a subtle smokiness and char, adding depth to their flavor profile.
Grilling asparagus requires a delicate balance, achieved by preheating the grill to a medium-high temperature. This ensures the spears cook quickly, retaining their crispness while developing a slight tenderness and those desirable grill marks. The extra virgin olive oil prevents sticking, aids in the cooking process, and adds a layer of richness, while a simple seasoning of salt and ground black pepper enhances the asparagus’s inherent flavors.
The balsamic glaze, a reduction of balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, introduces a tangy sweetness with a complex acidity that cuts through the overall richness of the dish. The glaze’s syrup-like consistency clings to the asparagus, creating a visually appealing sheen and a flavor that is both bold and balanced. The choice of balsamic vinegar is crucial, as its quality directly influences the depth of flavor in the glaze, making it a focal point that ties the dish together.
Adding an extra dimension of flavor are the garnishes of grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil. The Parmesan cheese, with its umami qualities, melts slightly upon contact with the warm asparagus, adding a creamy texture and a richness that contrasts beautifully with the balsamic glaze. Basil, with its peppery yet sweet notes, introduces a burst of freshness and color, elevating the dish with its aromatic presence.
Together, these elements combine to create a dish that is as visually striking as it is delicious. Balsamic Glazed Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan and Basil is a side dish that embodies the joy of seasonal cooking, showcasing how a few well-chosen ingredients can be transformed through simple techniques into a dish that is sophisticated, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
Ideal for al fresco dining, elegant dinner parties, or as a nutritious addition to any meal, this dish transcends the ordinary, offering a culinary experience that is both comforting and indulgent. It speaks to the art of cooking, the pleasure of eating, and the beauty of sharing good food with others, making Balsamic Glazed Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan and Basil a memorable dish that delights the senses and nourishes the soul.
Balsamic Glazed Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan and Basil pairs exquisitely with the Smoked Sirloin Tip Roast with Red Wine Shallot Reduction, offering a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The tangy sweetness of the balsamic glaze and the fresh, aromatic basil complement the deep, smoky richness of the sirloin, while the creamy Parmesan ties in beautifully with the savory notes of the red wine reduction, creating a harmonious balance that elevates the overall dining experience.
Balsamic Glazed Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan and Basil
Course: SidesCuisine: New AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes20
minutes30
minutesBalsamic Glazed Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan and Basil combines the smoky char of grilled asparagus with a sweet balsamic reduction, finished with savory Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a vibrant and elegant side dish.
Ingredients
1 pound 1 asparagus
2 tablespoons 2 extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup 1/4 balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons 2 brown sugar
1/4 cup 1/4 Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tablespoon 1 basil, freshly chopped
to taste, salt and ground black pepper
Directions
- Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high heat, 375°F to 450°F (190°C to 232°C). - Prepare the Asparagus:
Clean the asparagus and trim off the tough ends. Dry them well, and then toss with extra virgin olive oil, salt, and ground black pepper. - Grill:
Arrange the asparagus on the grill perpendicular to the grates. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until tender and charred, to your liking. - Balsamic Glaze:
While the asparagus grills, mix the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer. Reduce the heat and gently simmer until the mixture thickens into a glaze, about 5-7 minutes. - Assemble the Dish:
Transfer the grilled asparagus to a serving plate. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the warm asparagus. - Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil over the glazed asparagus.
Serve the dish immediately, allowing the warmth of the asparagus to slightly melt the Parmesan cheese.
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