Grilled Asparagus

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 20 min.

Makes

4 servings

Updated: Aug. 22, 2023
Tender, with a delicious barbecue flavor, this grilled asparagus makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats. Don't know how to cook asparagus on the grill? Just place the stalks on a double skewer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce

Directions

  1. In a large skillet, bring water to a boil; add asparagus. Cover and cook until crisp-tender, about 2-3 minutes; drain and pat dry. Cool Slightly.
  2. Thread several asparagus spears onto 2 parallel soaked wooden skewers. Repeat. Grill, uncovered, over medium heat for 2 minutes, turning once. Baste with barbecue sauce. Grill 2 minutes longer, turning and basting once.

Grilled Asparagus Tips

What should I look for when buying asparagus?

Look for bright green or violet-tinged spears with firm stems. Make sure the tips are closed and compact. When the bunch is squeezed, it should squeak. Avoid stalks that appear woody. Size does not indicate quality or flavor; thick asparagus is just more mature than the thin variety.

Should I wash my asparagus before grilling?

Yes! Asparagus is usually clean when purchasing it at the grocery store or farmers market, but it’s still a smart idea to wash it well. To clean asparagus thoroughly, fill a bowl with cold water and soak the asparagus for a few minutes, then rinse and pat dry. This should rid the stems of any dirt or sand.

How do I prepare asparagus for grilling?

After washing, remove the tough and fibrous ends of the asparagus. You can cut them using a knife, snap them off with your fingers, or, if using thicker asparagus, peel the ends with a vegetable peeler for less waste. You may also decide to blanch asparagus before popping it on the grill. Blanching allows the asparagus to cook halfway through, so it doesn't have to stay on the grill as long. Here are more tips and tricks for prepping asparagus.

Is grilled asparagus healthy?

Asparagus is naturally healthy as it’s low in calories and rich in nutrients. Cooking it on the grill is a healthy cooking method, as is steaming, boiling and roasting in the oven. (Here are more ways to cook perfectly crisp-tender asparagus). No matter what cooking method you choose, always be mindful of how much salt, oil, butter or other seasonings you add, as these ingredients can add extra fat, calories and sodium. Here are more delicious ways to enjoy fresh asparagus!

Research contributed by Amy Glander, Taste of Home Book Editor

Nutrition Facts

1 serving: 43 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 181mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable.