Grilled Asparagus with Hollandaise

Method

1. 01

   Make the hollandaise: place the egg yolks and cold water in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of barely simmering water (the bowl should not touch the water). Whisk continuously until the mixture is pale, thick and has doubled in volume — about 5 minutes.

2. 02

   Remove from the heat and whisk in the butter a cube at a time, waiting for each piece to be incorporated before adding the next. The sauce should be thick and glossy.

3. 03

   Season with lemon juice, cayenne, salt and pepper. Keep warm over the pan of hot water (off the heat) while you cook the asparagus.

4. 04

   Heat a griddle pan or heavy frying pan until very hot. Toss the asparagus in the olive oil and season well.

5. 05

   Cook the asparagus in the hot pan for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.

6. 06

   Arrange on warm plates and spoon over the hollandaise. Serve immediately.