Perfectly Grilled Asparagus
Published: May 10, 2021 | Last modified: May 9, 2023.
This Grilled Asparagus is an easy and healthy side dish that complements almost any meal!
Grilling season is the best season, and one of our favourite things to grill in the spring and early summer is locally grown asparagus. It makes a vibrant addition to spring pastas, brunch and egg dishes, pizzas and appetizers or served alongside chicken, fish or tossed in a grain bowl for a tasty vegetarian option.
The secret is to keep it simple to let the natural colour and flavour shine through. Crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, this simple recipe is hands down my favourite way to prepare it!
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Honey Dijon Asparagus Pasta Salad
Grilled Asparagus
Serves 4
Ingredients
1 lb asparagus
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
Flaky salt and freshly ground black pepper
Freshly grated Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon to finish (optional)
Instructions
Wash and trim asparagus then toss in olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Heat grill to 400° and cook for ~10 minutes, turning with grill-safe tongs until evenly charred and bright green.
Transfer to serving plates, then sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and finish with a squeeze of lemon. Serve immediately.
Notes
How to choose asparagus: Stalks should be plump and firm (not limp or wilted) with tips that are tightly closed. Ideally you will find them stored in bunches standing upright in cold water. They should be richly green in colour with stalk bottoms fading to white. To trim, cut the tougher part of the stalk just where it turns from white to green.
Alternatives to grilling: If you don't have a grill, you can easily sauté asparagus in a cast iron pan or roast it on a baking sheet at 400º for 10-12 minutes turning halfway through.
More asparagus topping ideas: Sun dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, olives, lemon zest, feta cheese and fresh spring herbs like basil or oregano. Try sprinkling it with smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat!
Storage: Cooked asparagus is best enjoyed immediately. However, leftover asparagus may be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It will soften when cold, so for best results wrap tightly in foil and reserve toppings until ready to reheat and serve.
