Grilled asparagus in foil is a delightful and healthy dish that brings out the natural flavors of this versatile vegetable. In this article, I will guide you through a best recipe for making grilled asparagus in foil that will have you savoring tender and delicious flavor of asparagus.
1. Best Grilled Asparagus Recipe in Foil
Ingredients
- 1 pound (about 20 spears) of fresh asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim the tough, woody ends by snapping them off—this naturally separates the tender part from the fibrous section.
Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly spread.
Assemble in Foil: Tear off a large sheet of aluminum foil, about 18 inches long, lay the asparagus in the center of the foil. Next, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the asparagus to ensure the oil and spices are coated.
Seal the Foil Packet: Fold the foil over the asparagus and crimp the edges tightly to form a sealed packet. Make sure there are no gaps for steam to escape.
Grill the Asparagus: Place the foil packet on the grill grates and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning the packet once halfway through. The cooking time depends on the thickness of the asparagus spears.
Check for Doneness: Carefully open the packet (watch out for hot steam) and test the asparagus with a fork. They should be tender yet slightly crisp.
Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the grilled asparagus to a serving dish, drizzle with extra lemon juice if desired, and serve immediately.
2. Tips for Perfectly Grilled Asparagus in Foil
Choose Fresh Asparagus: Opt for fresh asparagus with firm stalks and vibrant green color. Avoid wilted or discolored spears.
Using heavy-duty foil: Regular will work, but extra-wide 18-inch heavy-duty foil makes this process so much easier. If you’ve only got the 12-inch foil at home, you may need to layer two pieces to get full asparagus coverage
Seal the Foil Packet Tightly: A well-sealed packet traps steam, allowing the asparagus to cook evenly. If the foil is loosely folded, heat may escape, leading to uneven cooking.
Avoid Overcooking: Overcooking can make asparagus limp and soggy. Stick to the recommended grill time ( 10 – 12 minutes ), and you’ll enjoy perfectly cooked stalks with just the right amount of crunch.
3. What to Eat with Grilled Asparagus
Baked Chicken Breast or Steak
The rich flavors of baked meats pair beautifully with the fresh and earthy taste of asparagus. This combination creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Seafood
Serve grilled asparagus with salmon, shrimp, or scallops. The light, buttery flavors of seafood harmonize with the crispness of asparagus, creating a balanced plate that’s both healthy and delicious.
Pasta Dishes
Combine grilled asparagus with quinoa, farro, or couscous for a healthy and delicious meal. The hearty grains pair well with the vegetable’s tender crunch, making for a wholesome dish.
Grain-Based Meals
Pair asparagus with quinoa, farro, or rice for a hearty and nutritious option. The smoky notes from grilling add depth to the grains, creating a wholesome side or main dish.
Egg-Based Meals
Incorporating grilled asparagus into omelets, quiches, or alongside poached eggs adds a burst of flavor and nutrition. It’s a fantastic way to elevate brunch or a light dinner.
Grilled asparagus in foil is a simple yet elegant side dish suitable for any occasion. By following this recipe, you’ll have a versatile, healthy, and crowd-pleasing addition to your meal rotation. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
