Grilling asparagus on the barbecue is a delicious way to enjoy this vegetable in the summer. With just a few simple steps, you can achieve tender, lightly charred asparagus with wonderful smoky flavor. Here is a complete guide on how to grill asparagus bbq to perfection.
Choosing the Asparagus
When selecting asparagus for grilling, look for firm, straight stalks with tight tips. The stalks should have a deep green color. Avoid asparagus that looks limp, dry or woody. Thicker stalks will hold up better on the grill. Good options are jumbo or colossal size spears.
Tips for Selecting Asparagus
- Choose fresh, in-season asparagus for best flavor
- Pick spears that are evenly sized for even cooking
- Ensure tips are tightly closed and not flowering open
- Avoid spears that are limp, bendy or dried out
Preparing the Asparagus
Proper prep is key for tender grilled asparagus. Here are the easy steps:
Washing
Rinse the spears under cool running water to remove any grit or debris.
Trimming
Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus where they naturally break. The remainder of the stalk should be tender.
Coating
Drizzle the spears lightly with olive oil and toss gently to coat. This helps prevent sticking on the grill.
Seasoning
Sprinkle with salt, pepper and any other seasonings you desire. Popular choices are garlic powder, lemon pepper or Parmesan cheese.
Grilling Methods
There are a couple technique options for grilling asparagus. Choose based on your preferences:
Direct Grilling
Place spears perpendicular to grill grates. This allows you to easily turn them while preventing flopping through the grates. Grill over direct medium heat, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and tender.
Indirect Grilling
Arrange spears on a perforated grill pan or vegetable grill basket. Grill over indirect medium heat with grill lid closed. Roast until tender, 10-15 minutes.
BBQ Grill Times
- Jumbo spears – 14-18 minutes
- Large spears – 10-12 minutes
- Medium spears – 8-10 minutes
- Thin spears – 6-8 minutes
Check for tenderness periodically by piercing with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled asparagus makes a tasty addition to any barbecue meal. Here are some serving ideas:
- Serve as a side dish – Season and drizzle with a vinaigrette if desired.
- Toss into salads – Chill grilled asparagus and add to leafy green or grain salads.
- Top pizzas – Arrange grilled asparagus over pizza and add desired toppings.
- Fill frittatas or quiches – Dice into egg dishes for brunch.
- Layer on sandwiches – Add flavor and crunch to your favorite sandwich or burger.
- Make asparagus salad – Combine grilled asparagus, tomatoes, mozzarella and basil. Toss with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Blend into pasta – Mix diced grilled asparagus into hot pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Purée into soup – Purée grilled asparagus and chicken stock into a creamy soup.
With just a brief time on the barbecue, asparagus becomes tender, smoky and full of flavor. Experiment with different seasonings and enjoy it as a simple side or incorporated into your favorite meals. Grilled asparagus bbq makes for a nutritious, tasty addition to any summer barbecue.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you prevent asparagus from drying out on the grill?
Brush spears lightly with olive oil before grilling to help keep moisture in. Also, watch grill times closely and do not overcook. Grilling over indirect heat helps prevent drying out.
Should you soak asparagus before grilling?
It is not necessary to soak asparagus before grilling. A light rinse and pat dry is sufficient prep for grilling. Soaking can lead to waterlogged spears.
What is the best way to grill asparagus?
The best way is over direct medium heat, perpendicularly on the grates. Turn occasionally for even charring. Remove once lightly charred and tender-crisp. Indirect heat also works well for more tender asparagus.
Is it better to grill asparagus whole or cut up?
Whole spears are ideal for grilling. The stalks hold their shape better than cut up pieces. Whole grilled spears make for an attractive presentation as well.
Should you season asparagus before or after grilling?
Pre-seasoning asparagus before grilling allows the flavors to better absorb. Olive oil, salt, pepper and other dry seasonings can be added pre-grill. Finishing seasonings like vinaigrettes are good post-grill.
What is the best BBQ for grilling asparagus?
A gas or charcoal grill are both great options. Look for a grill with a grill grate surface that allows asparagus spears to lay flat without falling between grates. Having direct and indirect heat zones also helps.
Conclusion
Grilling fresh asparagus on the barbecue results in a simple yet flavorful side dish perfect for any warm weather gathering. Prepping the spears with a rinse, trim and light coating of oil readies them for the grill. Direct or indirect heating infuses the spears with smoky richness and charred bits. Grilled asparagus can be served as is, incorporated into salads and pastas or used as a topper for pizza and sandwiches. With a brief time over the coals, asparagus transforms from crisp to tender and becomes imbued with summery barbecue flavor. Experiment with different seasonings and enjoy grilled asparagus bbq as a nutritious addition to your next cookout.