This elegant Giada asparagus with grilled melon salad is such a comforting treat. I make it with ingredients like fresh cantaloupe, cherry tomatoes, and fresh thyme, and the flavors come together so perfectly.

It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is actually super simple to prepare. It takes about 40 minutes to make, and it’s perfect for when I want to serve something that’s both delicious and satisfying. Plus, it makes enough for 4-6 servings, so there’s plenty to share!

Recipe Ingredients

For the Grilled Melon Salad

• 1/2 small cantaloupe, peeled, seeds removed, and cut in 1/4-inch slices
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
• 1 teaspoon Calabrian chile paste
• 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice

For the Asparagus

• 1 pound medium-thick asparagus, trimmed
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled
• 2 fresh thyme sprigs
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For Garnish (Optional)

• Ricotta salata cheese, shaved with a vegetable peeler

How To Make Giada asparagus with grilled melon salad

Grilled Melon Salad

1. Grill the Melon: Preheat a grill over medium-high heat. Drizzle the cantaloupe slices with olive oil, and grill for 30 seconds on each side. Remove the melon to a cutting board to cool.
2. Mix the Salad: Cut the melon into 1/4-inch pieces and mix with tomatoes, mint, salt, chile paste, and lime juice in a bowl. Set aside to let the flavors mingle.

Asparagus Preparation

1. Make the Butter Emulsion: Heat 5 tablespoons of water in a large skillet over medium heat. Cut the butter into 8 pieces. As bubbles rise, whisk in butter piece by piece to create an emulsion. Add thyme and salt, then reduce heat to medium-low.
2. Cook the Asparagus: Add the asparagus to the pan, and toss gently to coat it in the butter. Cover the pan and cook for 5 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender when pierced with a knife.

Assemble and serve

1. Serve: Remove the asparagus to a platter, and spoon the melon salad on top. Garnish with ricotta salata cheese shavings, if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Mix and Match Melons: Feel free to swap out the cantaloupe for other melons like honeydew or casaba to create a colorful and refreshing variation that suits your taste preferences.
• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some toasted chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios to add a satisfying crunch and contrasting texture that complements the tender asparagus and sweet melon.
• Protein Power-Up: Elevate this dish into a satisfying main course by topping it with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp to add protein and make it more filling and satisfying.
• Herbal Infusion: Infuse the vinaigrette with fresh herbs like basil, mint, or dill by adding a handful of leaves to the blender or food processor to create a bright and refreshing flavor.
• Make it a Meal Prep: Double or triple this recipe to create a week’s worth of healthy lunches or snacks by portioning it into airtight containers and refrigerating or freezing for later use.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Check out More Giada Recipes:

• Giada De Laurentiis Baccala Salad
• Giada Spicy Sausage And Escarole Soup
• 15 Best Giada Christmas Desserts