How to Grill Asparagus

5 from 9 votes

Learn how to grill asparagus on an outdoor grill with this easy step-by-step tutorial. Grilling asparagus is easy and maximizes its flavor!

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Here is the best way to make asparagus on the grill. It is so simple. No special bbq basket or even aluminum foil required. Cooking asparagus on the grill adds a smoky note to its naturally sweet vegetal taste.

Asparagus on the grill
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The green slender asparagus spears are bursting with nutrition including fiber, folate, potassium, and lots of vitamins. It makes a great addition to your grilling menu this summer!

How to grill asparagus

  • Trim the thick woody ends off the bottom of the asparagus and discard.
  • Put the spears in a large bowl or platter and drizzle with olive oil.
  • Season with salt and pepper. You can add other seasoning, but it’s not necessary.
  • Use your hands to toss and distribute the oil and seasonings.
4 image collage to show how to prepare the asparagus but cutting it, seasoning it and tossing
  • Lay the asparagus in a single layer, placing them perpendicular to the bars. Cook with the lid open.
  • Halfway through, roll the asparagus onto its other side with a spatula or tongs.
2 image collage to how to grill the asparagus and turn it on the grill

Tips for grilling asparagus

  1. Make sure the grill is clean. That way the delicate asparagus stalks do not pick up any lingering flavors.
  2. Do not skip the oil. It helps keep the asparagus moist and not stick to the grill.
  3. Opt for thicker stalks if you can find them. Thicker stalks are a little easier to handle on the grill if you have a choice at the store.
  4. Watch the asparagus color on the grill. When it turns a brighter green, it is done. You can also use a sharp, small serrated knife – like a steak knife – to poke for doneness.

Recipes with grilled asparagus

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to steam or blanch asparagus before grilling?

It’s not necessary and quick cooking helps preserve the just-done crispness of well-cooked asparagus. Obviously, thicker spears will take longer to cook.

What other flavors enhance asparagus?

A squeeze of lemon or shower of lemon zest is tasty. The herbs dill and chives go well, too. Or try some chopped almonds, a shaving or two or parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of hot pepper. A creamy sauce for dipping, like Tzatziki or aioli would be nice, too.

How long will cooked asparagus keep in the fridge?

It will taste best fresh of the grill but tightly wrapped should keep for 3 to 5 days in the fridge.

Plate of grilled asparagus with lemon wedges

This best-grilled asparagus makes the perfect accompaniment for barbequed salmon, chicken, or beef. If you’re cooking outside anyway, there is no reason to dirty another pan in the kitchen for your side dish.

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How to Grill Asparagus

Learn how to grill asparagus on an outdoor grill with this easy step-by-step tutorial. Grilling asparagus is easy and maximizes its flavor!
5 from 9 votes
Servings 6 servings
Course Side
Calories 36
Prep Time 4 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound asparagus medium to large thickness
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
  • Remove the bottom thick woody ends of the asparagus, about ¼ of the way down, and discard.
  • Place the asparagus spears in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Use your hands to toss the asparagus.
  • Place the asparagus in a single layer on the grill grates perpendicular to the bars, and cook for 6-8 minutes with the lid open, rolling the asparagus to the other side halfway through using a spatula or tongs.
  • Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.

Notes

Storage: It’s best to enjoy grilled asparagus immediately after cooking. However you can store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Photo Credit: Erin Jensen

Nutrition

Calories: 36kcal, Carbohydrates: 3g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 2g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Sodium: 389mg, Potassium: 155mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 1g, Vitamin A: 572IU, Vitamin C: 4mg, Calcium: 19mg, Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.

Cuisine American
Course: Side

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