Grilled asparagus with shallot dressing and parmesan

We are now officially into British asparagus season, and Phil Vickery is in the kitchen to show us five quick and easy delicious dishes that incorporate those super spears!

From a hearty soup to bubble and squeak, Phil's giving us our fill!

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

200 - 250grms nice, young, English asparagus tipsExtra virgin olive oil, 2 - 3 tablespoons2 small shallots peeled and chopped as finely as possible2 teaspoons Dijon mustard2 tablespoons Balsamic vinegarSea salt, freshly milled black pepper, castor sugar6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil2 tablespoons cold water75grms fresh, shaved Parmesan

Method

• First step is to make the dressing. It's best left overnight so the flavours can soften and blend together. To prove what I mean, once you have finished the dressing taste it, and then taste it the next day - the difference is amazing.

• Put the mustard, and vinegar together in a bowl and whisk together. Add a pinch of sugar, salt and a couple twists of the pepper mill, then gradually add the olive oil in a steady stream so the whole dressing emulsifies and thickens. Finally add the cold water so you end up with a sauce like consistency, and add the shallots.

• Again check the seasoning and adjust if needed - I rather like my dressing to be quite sharp and tangy. Leave to soften.

• Next, warm up the griddle pan, but not too hot. Brush the asparagus spears with olive oil and place in the pan. Season well with salt and pepper and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, turning occasionally. The outside skin will slightly char and blister.

• When cooked arrange on a large plate, drizzle over the dressing and top with the Parmesan shavings. Serve warm with plenty of crusty bread.

Get Phil's asparagus, basil and Parmesan pasta recipe

Blitz those asparagus spears into a warming soup

Indulge with bubble and squeak with asparagus and butter sauce