Grilling Asparagus on a Gas Grill in Foil: A Flavorful Delight
Choosing the Perfect Asparagus
Before you begin grilling, it’s crucial to select the right asparagus. Look for fresh asparagus bunches with firm, vibrant green stalks and tightly closed tips. Avoid asparagus with wilted or yellowing ends, as they indicate less freshness.
Preparing the Asparagus
- Trimming: Start by trimming the tough ends of the asparagus spears. You can do this by holding each spear and bending it gently until it snaps at its natural breaking point. Discard the tough ends.
- Washing: Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Seasoning: Drizzle the asparagus spears with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. You can also add minced garlic, lemon zest, or your favorite seasonings for extra flavor.
Grilling in Foil
Grilling asparagus in foil helps retain moisture and prevents the spears from falling through the grill grates. Follow these steps for perfectly grilled asparagus:
- Preparation: Tear off a sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil large enough to wrap around the asparagus comfortably.
- Layering: Place the seasoned asparagus spears in the center of the foil sheet in a single layer. For added flavor, you can top the asparagus with thin slices of lemon or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Wrapping: Fold the sides of the foil over the asparagus to create a sealed packet. Make sure the packet is well-sealed to trap steam inside.
- Preheating the Grill: Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F.
- Grilling: Place the foil packet directly on the grill grates. Close the grill lid and cook for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the asparagus spears. The asparagus is ready when it’s tender but still slightly crisp.
- Checking for Doneness: Carefully open the foil packet to check the doneness of the asparagus. It should be vibrant green and easily pierced with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
Once grilled to perfection, transfer the asparagus to a serving platter. You can enjoy it as is for a simple and delicious side dish, or try these serving suggestions:
- Lemon Garlic Butter: Drizzle the grilled asparagus with melted butter infused with minced garlic and fresh lemon juice.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the grilled asparagus for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot grilled asparagus to create a savory crust.
Using Quality Seasonings
For the best flavor, consider using a high-quality vegetable seasoning blend like this one. A good seasoning can enhance the taste of grilled vegetables, making them even more delicious.
Cleaning Up
After grilling, allow the grill to cool slightly. Dispose of the foil packet and use a grill brush to clean any residual debris from the grates. Keeping your grill clean ensures optimal performance and longevity.
Grilling asparagus on a gas grill in foil is a simple yet impressive way to elevate this nutritious vegetable. With minimal preparation and flavorful seasonings, you can create a side dish that complements any main course. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a weeknight meal, grilled asparagus is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the flavors of summer with this delicious and healthy dish!
Check out our amazon affiliate grilling items here For more information visit our website website