As the weather warms up, many of us are eager to fire up our barbeques and start grilling our favorite foods. While burgers and hot dogs are classic barbeque fare, there’s another delicious and healthy option that’s perfect for the grill: asparagus. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to cook asparagus on the barbeque, including preparation tips, grilling techniques, and delicious recipe ideas.
Choosing the Right Asparagus for Grilling
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of grilling asparagus, it’s essential to choose the right type of asparagus for the job. There are several varieties of asparagus, but not all of them are suitable for grilling. Here are a few things to look for when selecting asparagus for grilling:
Thickness
Thicker asparagus spears are generally better for grilling than thinner ones. This is because they’re less likely to burn or become overcooked. Look for spears that are at least 1/2 inch thick.
Color
Asparagus comes in a range of colors, including green, purple, and white. While all of these colors can be grilled, green asparagus is the most popular and tender variety.
Seasonality
Asparagus is typically in season from February to June, although the exact timing varies depending on your location. Try to buy asparagus during this time for the best flavor and texture.
Preparing Asparagus for Grilling
Once you’ve selected your asparagus, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. Here are a few steps to follow:
Trimming
Trim the ends of the asparagus spears to remove any tough or woody bits. You can also trim the spears to a uniform length to make them easier to grill.
Peeling
Some people like to peel their asparagus before grilling, while others prefer to leave the skin on. If you do choose to peel your asparagus, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin from the bottom two-thirds of the spear.
Marinating
Marinating your asparagus before grilling can add extra flavor and tenderize the spears. Try marinating your asparagus in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Grilling Techniques for Asparagus
Now that your asparagus is prepared, it’s time to fire up the grill. Here are a few grilling techniques to try:
Direct Grilling
Direct grilling involves placing the asparagus spears directly over the heat source. This method is great for achieving a nice char on the outside of the asparagus. To direct grill your asparagus, place the spears on the grill and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender.
Indirect Grilling
Indirect grilling involves placing the asparagus spears away from the heat source. This method is great for cooking the asparagus more evenly and preventing burning. To indirect grill your asparagus, place the spears on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender.
Rotisserie Grilling
If you have a rotisserie attachment on your grill, you can use it to cook your asparagus. Simply place the asparagus spears on the rotisserie and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
Delicious Asparagus Recipes for the Barbeque
Now that you know how to grill asparagus, it’s time to get creative with some delicious recipes. Here are a few ideas to try:
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Aioli
This recipe is a classic for a reason. Simply grill your asparagus until tender, then serve with a dollop of lemon aioli made from mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic.
Asparagus and Prosciutto Wrap
This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy barbeque snack. Simply grill your asparagus until tender, then wrap it in prosciutto and serve.
Grilled Asparagus and Steak Salad
This recipe is perfect for a hearty barbeque meal. Simply grill your asparagus and steak until tender, then serve on top of a bed of mixed greens with your favorite toppings.
Tips and Tricks for Grilling Asparagus
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when grilling asparagus:
Don’t Overcrowd the Grill
Make sure to leave enough space between each asparagus spear to allow for even cooking. Overcrowding the grill can lead to steamed or undercooked asparagus.
Use a Grill Mat
A grill mat can help prevent your asparagus from sticking to the grill and make cleanup easier.
Don’t Overcook
Asparagus is best when it’s tender but still crisp. Avoid overcooking your asparagus, as it can become mushy and unappetizing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Asparagus
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when grilling asparagus:
Not Preheating the Grill
Make sure to preheat your grill before adding your asparagus. This will help ensure that your asparagus cooks evenly and prevents it from sticking to the grill.
Not Oil the Grates
Make sure to oil the grates before adding your asparagus. This will help prevent the asparagus from sticking to the grill and make cleanup easier.
Not Monitoring the Heat
Make sure to monitor the heat when grilling your asparagus. If the heat is too high, the asparagus can burn or become overcooked.
Conclusion
Grilling asparagus is a great way to add some variety to your barbeque menu. With these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an asparagus-grilling pro. Remember to choose the right type of asparagus, prepare it properly, and grill it to perfection. Happy grilling!
| Asparagus Variety | Thickness | Color | Seasonality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green Asparagus | 1/2 inch | Green | February to June |
| Purple Asparagus | 1/2 inch | Purple | February to June |
| White Asparagus | 1/2 inch | White | February to June |
- Trim the ends of the asparagus spears to remove any tough or woody bits.
- Peel the asparagus spears if desired, using a vegetable peeler to remove the skin from the bottom two-thirds of the spear.
What is the best way to prepare asparagus for grilling?
To prepare asparagus for grilling, start by rinsing the spears under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat the asparagus dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which can prevent even browning on the grill. Next, trim the ends of the asparagus to remove any tough or woody parts.
You can also peel the lower part of the stem if it’s particularly thick or fibrous. Some people also like to brush the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices before grilling. However, be careful not to over-season, as the asparagus can quickly become too salty.
What is the ideal temperature for grilling asparagus?
The ideal temperature for grilling asparagus is medium-high heat, typically between 400°F to 425°F (200°C to 220°C). This temperature range allows for a nice char to form on the outside of the asparagus while cooking the inside to tender perfection.
It’s also important to make sure the grill grates are clean and brush them with oil to prevent the asparagus from sticking. If you have a gas grill, you can preheat it to the desired temperature and adjust the heat as needed. If you have a charcoal grill, you can adjust the vents to control the temperature.
How long does it take to grill asparagus?
The grilling time for asparagus will depend on the thickness of the spears and the heat of your grill. As a general rule, thin asparagus spears will take about 3-5 minutes per side, while thicker spears will take about 5-7 minutes per side.
It’s also important to keep an eye on the asparagus as it grills, as it can quickly go from perfectly cooked to burnt. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the thickest part of the spear. If it slides in easily, the asparagus is cooked to perfection.
Can I grill asparagus in foil?
Yes, you can grill asparagus in foil, which is a great way to cook it if you’re worried about it falling through the grill grates or if you want to add extra flavor. To grill asparagus in foil, simply place the spears in the center of a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
Fold the foil over the asparagus to create a packet and grill over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender. You can also add other ingredients to the foil packet, such as garlic, lemon slices, or grated cheese, to add extra flavor to the asparagus.
How do I prevent asparagus from becoming mushy on the grill?
To prevent asparagus from becoming mushy on the grill, make sure to not overcook it. Asparagus is best when it’s cooked until it’s tender but still crisp, so aim for a slightly firm texture. You can also try grilling the asparagus at a higher heat for a shorter amount of time, which will help to preserve its texture.
Another tip is to not overcrowd the grill, as this can cause the asparagus to steam instead of sear. Grill the asparagus in batches if necessary, and make sure to leave a little space between each spear to allow for even cooking.
Can I grill asparagus ahead of time?
While it’s best to grill asparagus immediately before serving, you can grill it ahead of time and reheat it later. To do this, grill the asparagus as desired, then let it cool to room temperature. Wrap the asparagus in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to a day.
To reheat the asparagus, simply wrap it in foil and heat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat the asparagus on the grill by wrapping it in foil and heating it over low heat for a few minutes.
What are some popular seasonings for grilled asparagus?
There are many popular seasonings for grilled asparagus, depending on your personal taste preferences. Some popular options include lemon juice and zest, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also try adding other herbs and spices, such as paprika, thyme, or rosemary, to give the asparagus a unique flavor.
Another popular seasoning for grilled asparagus is parmesan cheese, which adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish. Simply sprinkle the cheese over the asparagus during the last minute of grilling, or serve it on the side as a topping.