“Grilled Asparagus with Sherry Vinaigrette”

Looking for the perfect tasty vegetable side dish? Having a cookout and you have no idea what to serve? You are not alone as I run into the same problems all the same. I’m always looking for different flavor profiles, loving the experimental part of cooking. Don’t you? If not, start today. It’s the best way I know to figure out what you do and don’t like. So as I’m speaking of different, if you love asparagus, try Grilled Asparagus with Sherry Vinaigrette. Ridiculously simple, easy, and can be prepared in no time.

Grilled Asparagus with Sherry Vinaigrette

My husband and I both love vegetables especially pairing them with our favorite roasted and grilled meats, poultry, and seafood. I think we actually love our veggies as much as we do meat. When I woke up this particular morning, I was already thinking of how to cook some fresh asparagus purchased the day before. I had marinated chicken breast, my Grilled Bone-in Chicken Breasts with Turmeric and Lime to be exact. What better side than asparagus?

Grilled Asparagus with Sherry Vinaigrette

Asparagus is easy to prepare as it cooks quickly and can be seasoned with most anything. In my recipe for Grilled Asparagus with Sherry Vinaigrette, I used sherry vinegar with minced garlic and fresh chopped thyme leaves. Sherry vinegar has a distinctive flavor yet will not overpower with strong flavors but mild ones. This vinegar pairs well with any fresh herbs, allowing the nutty, rich flavor of the vinegar to shine through. I also love making salad dressings with sherry vinegar. Slightly sweet in taste but nothing like balsamic but is less acidic than white and red wine vinegar. Do not use cooking wines as a result the flavor is not the same.

Grilled Asparagus with Sherry Vinaigrette

On your next trip to your local market, grab some of the beautiful fresh asparagus that’s available. Don’t forget to grab a bottle of Sherry Vinegar located in the oil and vinegar aisle. Fire up your grill or use an indoor grill pan if it’s raining, make the vinaigrette and pour this tangy dressing over the asparagus. So simple, in addition to being oh so good. I bet even your kids will nibble on these flavorful green stalks. Serve with any grilled or roasted meat, poultry or seafood entrée. It’s just plain outstandingly divine. Enjoy this recipe or have your spin on preparing asparagus? Leave a comment or #chowdownlowdown. Happy Grilling!

Grilled Asparagus with Sherry Vinaigrette

Grilled Asparagus with Sherry Vinaigrette

1 bunch fresh asparagus, bottoms trimmed

4 T. Olive oil, divided

1 t. fresh thyme, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

1 T. sherry vinegar

1/4 t. kosher salt

1/4 t. fresh ground black pepper

Heat grill to 350 to 400 degrees. Place trimmed asparagus in a foil pan and toss with 1 T. Olive oil.

Place foil pan over direct heat and cook, turning on occasion for 6 to 8 minutes depending on stalk thickness.

Remove asparagus from grill and set aside while vinaigrette is prepared.

Using a small skillet, heat 3 T. of Olive oil and add in thyme, garlic, salt and pepper. Let thyme sizzle for about 10 to 15 seconds. Remove from heat and add in vinegar. Stir until combined, pour over asparagus and serve immediately.

Makes 4 servings. Carbs, 4 g.