Grilled Asparagus and Lemon Feta Quinoa

Simple grilled asparagus is paired with zesty feta and lemon quinoa making this easy dish the perfect summertime side!

Asparagus is hand's down our favorite vegetable so we eat a lot of it when it's in season (and cheap!). I've made it every way possible but still reach for the grill when it's time to prepare it. There is something about that smoky char flavor, and there is no easier method!

The quinoa is delicious on it's own but is especially flavorful when combined with the fresh-from-the-grill flavor of the asparagus. You can toss the quinoa together in advance if you're preparing for guests or a picnic and just add the asparagus after grilling. It's light, fresh, and tastes like summer.

Happy grilling!

Grilled Asparagus & Lemon Feta Quinoa

1 cup quinoa

2 bundles asparagus

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup feta cheese

1/2 cup flat leaf parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon lemon zest

salt

For the dressing:

4 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Rinse the quinoa, place in a small saucepan, and add 2 cups water. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 15 minutes. Drain any excess water and set aside to cool.

To prepare the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Pour the dressing over the cooled quinoa and add the feta and parsley. Toss to combine.

Meanwhile, heat your grill to high and trim the asparagus. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and make sure each piece is well coated. Season with salt and pepper. Place the asparagus directly over the heat on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until well marked on all sides but not burnt, 6-8 minutes.

Transfer the quinoa to a serving platter and arrange the asparagus over top. Sprinkle with lemon zest before serving. 

Source: adapted from Green Kitchen Stories