Best Simple Grilled Asparagus Recipe

Grilled asparagus is one of my favorite side dishes to make, especially when the weather is nice and the grill is ready to go.

This Grilled Asparagus recipe is simple, packs a lot of flavor, and can be made in under 15 minutes!

Whether you like thick asparagus spears or thinner ones, this recipe is perfect for you. Personally, I prefer the thin stalks.

With just a few ingredients and a little time on the grill, it’s the best way to have a delicious side dish that’s great with any main dish.

Kids love it too! Yeah, I know, green stuff is usually a no go. But Lily absolutely loves this asparagus when it’s cooked this way. Outdoor grill for the win!

I love serving this asparagus at family gatherings and barbecues. It’s always a hit, and the smoky flavor from the grill makes it extra special.

Plus, it’s a healthy side dish that everyone can enjoy. Asparagus pairs wonderfully with so many dishes, from rib-eye steaks to pork chops, making it a versatile addition to your meal.

Let’s dive into why this Grilled Asparagus is a great addition to your meal and how you can make it yourself.

1. Simple and Quick: This recipe uses just a few ingredients and takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish.
2. Smoky Flavor: Grilling the asparagus adds a delicious smoky flavor that you can’t get from roasting or steaming.
3. Versatile Side Dish: It goes well with many main dishes and can be easily customized with different seasonings or toppings.

• Asparagus
• Olive oil
• Fresh black pepper
• Kosher salt
• Garlic powder

1. Fill a large saucepot with about 3 inches of water. Cover and bring to a boil.
2. Uncover, reduce heat to medium-low to a simmer.
3. Add the asparagus. Cook for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain well.

If you are grilling right away

1. Transfer asparagus to a plate.
2. Season with the olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat.
3. Grill over medium heat until tender, 5-8 minutes. Turning every couple minutes for an even char. 

If you are making ahead

1. In a large bowl, add 1-quart water and 1-quart ice.
2. Place drained asparagus into ice water to shock it. Once cold, drain again.
3. Set aside until ready to grill. Or, the blanched asparagus can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to one day before grilling. 

TIPS FOR GRILLING ASPARAGUS

Make sure you trim off the woody ends of the asparagus, about two inches from the bottom.

Blanch the asparagus first before grilling. Blanching allows the asparagus to cook halfway through, so it doesn’t have to stay on the grill for too long.

I have noticed that if you place asparagus on the grill raw, it can dry out easily.

Following the method in this recipe, you will have juicy, vibrant green asparagus every time!

CAN YOU GRILL ASPARAGUS IN FOIL?

If you are worried about the asparagus falling through your gas grill grates, simply put a layer of aluminum foil over the grates or make a foil packet!

This will also help keep the asparagus from getting too charred and make cleanup easier.

We love to serve grilled asparagus with our Rib Eye Steaks (the best steak marinade ever!) 

ANY ADDITIONS?

This is a recipe to satisfy any asparagus fan.

Remember, the best grilled asparagus recipe is the one that you make your own!

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus for extra flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and zest for a bright, fresh taste.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the top for a tangy twist.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds for a bit of crunch.
• Chopped Garlic: Toss in some finely chopped garlic before grilling for a garlicky kick.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley add great flavor.
• Soy Sauce: Brush with a little soy sauce for an umami boost.
• Honey: Drizzle with honey for a sweet contrast to the smoky flavor.
• Crumbled Bacon: Top with crispy crumbled bacon for added savory goodness.

ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?

This is such an easy side dish to change up.

These tender asparagus stalks are great with so many different flavors. And a short cook time too!

• Olive Oil: Use avocado oil or melted butter for a different taste.
• Kosher Salt: Substitute with sea salt or Himalayan pink salt.
• Garlic Powder: Use minced fresh garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
• Fresh Black Pepper: White pepper can be used for a milder pepper flavor.
• Asparagus: If asparagus is out of season, try using green beans or broccoli.
• Lemon Juice: Lime juice can be used for a slightly different citrus flavor.

Refrigerator: Store leftover asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For best results, reheat in a hot grill or stovetop grill pan.

Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked asparagus.

Place it in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe plastic bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Grilled Asparagus is the perfect side dish for any meal.

It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious.

The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the simple seasoning makes it a hit every time.

Enjoy grilling and savor the flavors of this amazing dish!