How To Season Grill Asparagus In Foil

Grilling Asparagus in Foil: A Delicious and Easy Side Dish

Grilled asparagus is a delightful addition to any meal, and when seasoned just right, it can be a real crowd-pleaser. One of the easiest and most effective ways to grill asparagus is by using foil. This method not only helps to retain the flavor and nutrients of the asparagus but also makes for easy cleanup. Here’s a simple guide on how to season and grill asparagus in foil to perfection.

Preparing the Asparagus

Before you start seasoning and grilling the asparagus, it’s important to properly prepare the spears. Begin by washing the asparagus under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Next, trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears to ensure that you’re left with only the tender, flavorful parts.

Seasoning the Asparagus

Seasoning is key to bringing out the natural flavors of the asparagus while adding a delicious twist. Here are a few simple and tasty seasoning ideas to try:

• Classic Lemon and Garlic: Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, then sprinkle with minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. The combination of citrus and garlic adds a bright and zesty flavor to the grilled asparagus.
• Parmesan and Herb: After brushing the asparagus with olive oil, sprinkle it with grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper. The cheese adds a rich, savory note while the herbs bring a fresh, earthy aroma.
• Spicy Cajun: For a kick of heat, coat the asparagus with a mixture of Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a touch of olive oil. This seasoning combination adds a smoky, spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the charred asparagus.

Grilling in Foil

Once the asparagus is seasoned to your liking, it’s time to wrap it in foil for grilling. Lay out a sheet of aluminum foil and place the seasoned asparagus in the center. Fold the edges of the foil over the asparagus and crimp them together to create a sealed packet. This method helps to steam the asparagus while it grills, resulting in tender and flavorful spears.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the foil-wrapped asparagus directly on the grates. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning the packet occasionally to ensure even cooking. When the asparagus is tender and slightly charred, it’s ready to be removed from the grill.

Serving and Enjoying

Once the grilled asparagus is done, carefully open the foil packet to release the aromatic steam and reveal the beautifully cooked spears. Transfer the asparagus to a serving platter and garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of additional seasoning, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra flavor boost.

Grilled asparagus in foil makes for a fantastic side dish to accompany grilled meats, seafood, or even as a topping for salads. The tender, flavorful spears are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Next time you’re firing up the grill, consider trying this simple and delicious method for seasoning and grilling asparagus in foil. With just a few flavorful seasonings and a bit of time on the grill, you can elevate this versatile vegetable into a standout dish that will have everyone coming back for more.

So, go ahead and give this method a try – your taste buds will thank you!