
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan is a simple, elegant side dish featuring tender-crisp asparagus spears, charred on the grill or in a pan, then brightened with fresh lemon zest and juice, and finished with a savory sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. It's a classic preparation that highlights the fresh, grassy flavor of asparagus with complementary acidic and umami notes.
This dish is low in carbohydrates and moderate in fat (from the Parmesan and any oil used), while providing a good amount of plant-based protein and fiber. It's an excellent source of vitamins K, A, and C, folate, and antioxidants, with a typical serving (about 10-12 spears) containing roughly 100-150 calories.
| Calories | 85 kcal |
| Protein | 5.5 g |
| Carbs | 5.8 g |
| Fat | 5.2 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 2.1 g |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
| Vitamin K | 90 mcg |
| Folate | 134 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 905 IU |
| Vitamin C | 7.5 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Iron | 2.1 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Phosphorus | 100 mg |
Per 1 cup (134 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Asparagus is one of the few vegetables cultivated and eaten widely since ancient Roman times, often associated with spring and celebrations. Nutritionally, it's a natural diuretic and contains the amino acid asparagine, which was first isolated from asparagus and gave the vegetable its name.