Grilled Asparagus Caesar Recipe

This Grilled Asparagus Caesar is a delightful twist on the classic salad, featuring smoky grilled asparagus, crispy sourdough croutons, and a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. It’s a perfect side dish for a summer barbecue or a light and satisfying lunch.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Grilled Asparagus Caesar:

For the Salad:

• Asparagus Spears: 2 pounds, provides a tender and slightly sweet vegetable base.
• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, used for grilling and dressing.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhances the flavors of the dish.
• Garlic Powder: For sprinkling, adds a subtle garlic flavor.
• Sourdough Bread Slices: 4 slices, provides a base for crispy croutons.
• Shaved Parmesan Cheese: ⅓ cup, adds a salty and nutty topping.
• Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese: 3 tablespoons, adds a sharp and salty flavor.

For the Caesar Dressing:

• Garlic Cloves: 4, minced, adds a pungent and savory flavor.
• Greek Yogurt: 3 tablespoons, provides a creamy base.
• Parmesan Cheese: 2 tablespoons, adds a sharp and salty flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon, adds a tangy and savory note.
• Red Wine Vinegar: 2 teaspoons, adds a tangy and acidic flavor.
• Anchovy Paste: 1 teaspoon, adds a savory and umami flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: ¼ teaspoon each, enhances the flavors of the dressing.
• Lemon Juice: ½ lemon, adds a bright and citrusy flavor.
• Olive Oil: ⅓ cup, emulsifies the dressing and adds richness.

How to Make Grilled Asparagus Caesar

Step 1: Make the Caesar Dressing

1. Add the minced garlic, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, anchovy paste, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to a food processor.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. With the processor still running, slowly stream in the olive oil until a creamy dressing forms.
4. Set aside or store in the refrigerator for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus and Sourdough

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Remove the woody stems from the asparagus spears.
3. Toss the asparagus with 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the sourdough slices with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt and garlic powder.

Step 3: Grill the Asparagus and Sourdough

1. Place the asparagus spears directly on the grill grates (perpendicular to the grates).
2. Grill for 5-6 minutes, tossing occasionally, until slightly charred.
3. Add the sourdough slices to the grill at the same time.
4. Grill the bread for 1-2 minutes per side, until toasted with grill marks.
5. Remove the asparagus and bread from the grill.
6. Slice or tear the sourdough into smaller crouton pieces.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. Place the grilled asparagus on a plate.
2. Drizzle with Caesar dressing (use as much or as little as you like).
3. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese, sourdough croutons, and finely grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Side dish: Serve this salad as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
• Lunch: Enjoy it as a light and satisfying lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Dressing: The Caesar dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Asparagus: Grilled asparagus is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.
• Croutons: Grilled sourdough croutons can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for the croutons?

• Yes, you can use other types of bread, such as baguette or ciabatta.

Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?

• Yes, you can use store-bought Caesar dressing, but homemade dressing is much more flavorful.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

• Yes, you can add other grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

• Yes, omit the anchovy paste from the dressing.

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