Grilled asparagus is a simple yet elegant side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The slight char from the grill adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the asparagus’s natural sweetness. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, this guide will teach you how to make perfectly grilled asparagus every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it takes less than 15 minutes to cook.
- Healthy and Delicious: Grilled asparagus is a low-calorie and nutrient-rich side dish that’s packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Versatile: Grilled asparagus pairs well with a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken and fish to steaks and burgers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill
- Tongs
- Small bowl
Let’s Get Grilling!
Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus
- Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus spears by bending each spear until it breaks naturally.
- Pro Tip: “The woody ends of asparagus can be tough and fibrous,” says Chef Michael Smith, author of “Vegetables on the Grill.” “Snapping them off ensures that you’re left with the most tender and flavorful part of the asparagus.”
Step 2: Season the Asparagus
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the asparagus spears to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the oil and seasoning.
Step 3: Grill the Asparagus
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F).
- Place the asparagus spears on the preheated grill grates.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the asparagus is tender-crisp and lightly charred.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove the grilled asparagus from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
- Serve immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish.
Tips for Grilling Asparagus to Perfection
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Grilling the asparagus in a single layer will ensure that it cooks evenly.
- Use high heat: Grilling over medium-high heat will give the asparagus a nice char without overcooking it.
- Check for doneness: The asparagus is done when it’s tender-crisp, meaning it’s still slightly firm to the bite but not mushy.
Grilled Asparagus: Flavor Variations
Grilled asparagus is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized with different flavors. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Lemon-Garlic Asparagus: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of garlic powder to the asparagus before grilling.
- Parmesan-Crusted Asparagus: Toss the grilled asparagus with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
- Asian-Inspired Asparagus: Marinate the asparagus in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger before grilling.
FAQs
Q: Can I grill asparagus without blanching it first?
A: Yes, you can grill asparagus without blanching it first. Blanching helps to preserve the asparagus’s vibrant green color, but it’s not necessary for this recipe.
Q: What can I serve with grilled asparagus?
A: Grilled asparagus pairs well with a variety of main courses, such as grilled chicken, fish, steak, and burgers. It also makes a delicious addition to salads and pasta dishes. You can find a simple and delicious Aglio e Olio recipe on our website.
