I used to think that grill pans were a complete joke, doing little more than filling the house with smoke while delivering paltry grill marks. That was until I tried the Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan. This thing has been a life changer, as I used to get seriously sad every summer being deprived of a real grill (I live in a Miami high rise where they are prohibited). While nothing beats a charcoal grill for flavor, this cast iron grill pan mimics the smoky char you get from an outdoor grill. I am obsessed with mine and use it all year round. An added bonus is that it is perfect for grilling potatoes. I imagine that if one were to grill potatoes on an actual grill, much time would be spent chasing those potatoes all over town. The grill pan keeps them perfectly contained where they char to perfection.

In this Grilled Pesto Potato and Asparagus Salad I use my Foolproof Basil Pesto recipe, but you can certainly use store-bought. Bright, nutty pesto pairs perfectly with the slightly charred potatoes and asparagus, and whether you make it for a dinner party or just a simple weeknight meal, this salad is sure to impress. For a heartier meal, I serve the Grilled Pesto Potato and Asparagus Salad alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.