If I do say so, this Charred Asparagus Mint Pistachio Gremolata Recipe is a particularly delicious appetizer. You can serve it deconstructed on a platter or on top of crostini, but the combination of charred asparagus, creamy burrata, fresh mint gremolata, and lemon olive oil screams spring!
1poundasparagus spearswoody ends trimmed and discarded
4tablespoonsextra-virgin olive oilplus more for garnish
3tablespoonsroasted, salted shelled pistachiosor pine nuts
12(1/4 inch) slicesciabatta breadtoasted
2teaspoonsloosely packed lemon zestfrom 1 lemon
1garlic clovegrated or pressed
1/4cupfresh mint leavesroughly torn or cut with sharp scissors
8ouncesfresh burrata cheese
Sea saltfor garnish
Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Toast The Pistachios: Bring a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Meanwhile, brush the asparagus with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Meanwhile, toast the pistachios in a 350°F oven or in a small frying pan over medium heat until dark brown but not burned, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Toast The Crostini: Brush the bread with the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil then grill the bread in the grill pan or toast it until golden brown, about 5 minutes total.
Grill The Asparagus: Add the asparagus to the grill and briefly cook, turning rarely, until charred on the outside and just knife tender (exact timing depends on the thickness of your asparagus) but about 3 minutes for thin asparagus. Set the asparagus aside to cool briefly and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Make The Gremolata: Meanwhile, combine chop the pistachios (not necessary if using pine nuts) then combine stir together with the lemon zest, and garlic. Gently stir in the mint, drizzle with a bit of oil and set aside.
Serve: Place charred asparagus on a plate with burrata, scatter gremolata over the top, drizzle with olive oil and a dash of salt and serve.