Grilled asparagus is a great addition to any dinner menu. It’s quick, easy to make and can be paired with just about any dish for a simple yet satisfying side.
When making grilled asparagus, it is important to choose quality asparagus with firm tips and stalks and no shriveled ends. Asparagus with shriveled tips or woody bottoms will not hold up well on the grill, and they will burn quickly.
You can also use a high heat, such as a gas or charcoal grill, to achieve charred flavor on your asparagus. You’ll need to keep an eye on your asparagus while it grills to ensure they’re cooked through, but the end result will be worth the effort.
1. Properly Trimping Asparagus Spears
To prep the asparagus for the grill, start by removing the tough, woody ends by snapping them off. As a rule, you want to remove the ends about an inch or two from the thicker part of the asparagus stem where the tender stalk begins.
2. Toss: After the asparagus has been trimmed, toss them in olive oil and a bit of salt and pepper.
3. Season: Whether you’re using extra-virgin olive oil, safflower oil or another high-heat cooking oil, season the asparagus thoroughly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. How Long: Cooking time depends on how thick the asparagus is, the heat of the grill, and if you’re using a crowded pan (see below). A good rule of thumb is to grill asparagus for 2 to 4 minutes per side, depending on how thick the spears are.
5. Keeping the Asparagus Fresh: To keep the asparagus fresh for longer, trim off about a half-inch from each stalk and store them with the base of the bunch submerged in water, similar to how you would store flowers. This method will extend the shelf life of asparagus by about 3 to 5 days.
6. In a foil packet:
For an easy and delicious way to prepare asparagus, place it in a foil packet with some olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. You can then place this packet on the grill and cook until the asparagus is fork-tender.
7. Add Flavorings:
After the asparagus is cooked, you can top it off with a variety of other flavors. You can add lemon zest, sun dried tomatoes, olives, cooked crumbled bacon, pine nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
8. Serve:
To serve, transfer the grilled asparagus to a platter and garnish with sliced lemon wedges or shaved Parmesan cheese. Garnish with a dash of garlic powder for an added punch of flavor.
Getting Started:
To begin, choose medium-sized asparagus spears at your local market or grocery store. Asparagus that is too thick or too thin will not hold up well on the grill and may fall through the grates.