This hack makes it so much easier to cook asparagus on the grill.
Grilling is perhaps thebest way to cook asparagus.
When grilled, asparagus becomes tender while still keeping its crunch.
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However, one bundle of asparagus is not equal to all others.
Asparagus spears come in many sizes, and you need tobuy the right asparagusfor the best grilling results.
When cooked, these ends can be quite chewy.
Thats not too appealing, so most cooks cut off the asparagus ends before cooking.
Before you plop your bunch of asparagus spears onto the grill, take a few minutes to prep them.
That could lead to flare-ups and fires, and youll also have fewer pieces for your dinner side dish.
Heres how to do it.
If you use metal skewers, you dont need to prep them first.
Pierce the asparagus with a second skewer in the upper third of the piece.
Dont get too close to the tip; the skewer might break it and cause it to fall off.
Then, place the vegetables directly onto the preheated grill, above the flames, and direct heat.
Grill another 2 to 3 minutes, then remove from the heat.
Sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper, and your preferred seasoning.
Use tongs or a fork to gently remove the pieces from the skewers and serve your dinner guests.
If your grill grates have narrow openings, you may not need the skewering.
Large pieces could get stuck, but they may not fall through and pose a fire hazard.
However, having all pieces grouped does make flipping and removing the vegetables easier and faster.
You dont have to worry about any spears rolling away while youre scooping them up and overcooking either.
This method ensures no asparagus falls through the grates while grilling.
This conversion happens over time, so the fresher the vegetable is, the less chewy it will be.
Additionally, the thinner the stem, the faster this process occurs.
If your asparagus is soggy after grilling, it means you overcooked it.
Only leave asparagus on the grill for a few minutes.
Soaking asparagus before grilling is not necessary.
Simply rinse the stalks and allow them to dry on a towel.
However, soaking the stalks will loosen and remove fine dirt that rinsing might miss.
The skinny on asparagus is that thicker means more tender.
Published March 26, 2000.
