Learn how simple it is to make perfectly grilled asparagus. In just a few minutes on the grill you’ll have a tender, flavorful, and nutritious side dish that pairs beautifully with any grilled protein.
Place the asparagus on the grill after you remove your meat so it can rest — for example, after grilled pork chops.
Grilled Asparagus Recipe
Grilling asparagus is quick and straightforward. This is a versatile side that complements steaks, chicken, fish, burgers, and more. I prefer to grill thicker spears: they’re easier to handle on the grates and less likely to fall through or burn. Thinner spears are great roasted in the oven, but for the grill choose sturdier stalks.
This recipe keeps things simple—olive oil, salt, and pepper are all you need to bring out the vegetable’s natural flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the finished asparagus brightens the dish, if you like.
Ingredients you will need
- Extra virgin olive oil (or a bolder olive oil if you prefer)
- Fresh asparagus spears — do not use frozen
- Kosher salt (sea salt or Himalayan salt will also work)
- Freshly ground black pepper
Helpful kitchen tools:
- Outdoor or indoor grill (indoor grills work well if you don’t have outdoor access)
- Shallow baking dish or bowl for tossing the asparagus
- Tongs for turning the spears on the grill
- Serving platter
How to Cook Asparagus on the Grill
The ideal grilling temperature is just below high heat. If you’re grilling meat first, pull it off to rest and then raise the grill heat for the asparagus. Closing the lid helps the grill come up to temperature more quickly.
- Trim the woody ends from the asparagus. Lay the spears flat in a shallow dish or bowl so they can be evenly coated.
- Drizzle with olive oil, then season with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- When the grill is hot, open the lid and add the asparagus to the grates. You should hear a sizzle when the oiled spears touch the grill. Grill thick spears 3–4 minutes per side, turning once, until tender and lightly charred.
Serving and variations
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Wrap spears in prosciutto or bacon before grilling for a richer appetizer or side.
More grilling recipes
- Grilled Chicken in Garlic Marinade
- Pork Chops al Pastor
- Grilled Cube Steak Roll Ups
- Cedar Plank Salmon
- Shrimp Kabobs
- Grilled Lamb Chops
- Grilled Vegetables
More asparagus recipes
- Roasted asparagus with smoky Romesco sauce
- Asparagus fries for a crunchy, fun side
- Serve grilled asparagus alongside grilled salmon
- Bacon-wrapped asparagus (air fryer or oven)
Grilled Asparagus
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Before You Begin
Instructions
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Preheat grill to 425°F (about just below high).
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Trim the woody ends from the asparagus and place the spears in a dish large enough to lay flat.
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Drizzle with olive oil and season with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
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Place the asparagus on the hot grill. You should hear a sizzle. Grill 3–4 minutes per side for thick spears, turning once, until charred in spots and tender.
Nutrition
These recipes are tested with a conventional gas oven and stovetop. Ovens can vary, so an oven thermometer may help ensure accurate temperatures. For alternate appliances like air fryers or toaster ovens, you may need to adjust times and temperatures.