Grilled Asparagus with Fresh Dill & Garlic: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe

Updated at: 30/12/2024

Asparagus, that elegant spring vegetable, deserves more than just a simple boil or steam. Its delicate flavor is beautifully enhanced by a quick char on the grill, unlocking a subtle sweetness that’s simply irresistible. Imagine the tender spears, kissed by smoky char marks, infused with the bright, herbaceous notes of fresh dill and the pungent warmth of garlic – a dish that's as sophisticated as it is effortlessly simple. This recipe perfectly balances these flavors, creating a side dish that's equally at home at a casual weeknight dinner or a more elaborate gathering.

This recipe for Grilled Asparagus with Fresh Dill & Garlic requires minimal ingredients and even less effort, resulting in a dish that's bursting with flavour. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this is all about letting the natural goodness of the asparagus shine. Ready to transform this humble vegetable into a culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Safety Guidelines
  • Handle hot grill grates carefully to avoid burns. Use tongs to place and remove asparagus.
  • Ensure asparagus is thoroughly dry before grilling to prevent sticking and steaming instead of grilling.
  • Don't overcrowd the grill; this will lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Asparagus

    • Trim the hard stems off the asparagus.
    Prepare Asparagus: Trim the hard stems off the asparagus.
    Prepare Asparagus

  2. Season Asparagus

    • In a bowl, combine asparagus with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1.5 tablespoons of fresh dill, 1 pressed garlic clove, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper. Mix well.
    Season Asparagus: In a bowl, combine asparagus with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1.5 tablespoons of fresh dill, 1 pressed garlic clove, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper. Mix well.
    Season Asparagus

  3. Preheat Grill

    • Preheat grill to 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit (higher is better to compensate for temperature drop when opening).

  4. Grill Asparagus

    • Place seasoned asparagus in a grill basket and place it on the preheated grill over direct heat. Close the grill lid and cook for 8-15 minutes (depending on asparagus size), mixing a couple of times during cooking. Asparagus is ready when it's bright green and slightly charred.
    Grill Asparagus: Place seasoned asparagus in a grill basket and place it on the preheated grill over direct heat. Close the grill lid and cook for 8-15 minutes (depending on asparagus size), mixing a couple of times during cooking. Asparagus is ready when it's bright green and slightly charred.
    Grill Asparagus

  5. Serve

    • Remove from grill and serve immediately.
    Serve: Remove from grill and serve immediately.
    Serve

Read more: Housewise Steel Grill Rolling Set: Effortless Grilling for Vegetables and More!

Tips

  • Adjust seasoning to your taste.
  • Keep the grill closed as much as possible while cooking for even cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooked Asparagus

Reason: Asparagus becomes mushy and loses its vibrant green color when overcooked.
Solution: Grill asparagus for a shorter time, checking for doneness frequently.

2. Burning the Asparagus

Reason: High heat and/or inattention can lead to charred asparagus spears.
Solution: Use medium heat and regularly turn the asparagus to ensure even cooking.

3. Underseasoning

Reason: The delicate flavor of asparagus can be easily overpowered by grilling, resulting in blandness.
Solution: Generously season asparagus with salt, pepper, and garlic before grilling.

FAQs

How do I prevent my asparagus from burning on the grill?
Make sure your grill is clean and preheated to medium-high heat. Asparagus cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it and flip frequently. If using a gas grill, you can also slightly lower the heat.
Can I use other herbs besides dill?
Absolutely! Parsley, chives, or even a lemon-herb blend would all be delicious alternatives to dill. Experiment and find your favorite combination!