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Grilled Asparagus

This simple grilled asparagus recipe is a celebration of seasonal greens, offering a vibrant and healthy addition to any spring or summer menu. By gently cooking the spears over a high heat, you encourage the natural sugars to caramelise, resulting in a sweet and nutty flavour that far surpasses steaming or boiling. It is a wonderful way to enjoy this nutrient-rich vegetable with minimal fuss, requiring only three basic ingredients to achieve professional results at home.

As a versatile vegan side dish, these tender spears pair beautifully with everything from roasted new potatoes to plant-based risottos. The high fibre content and fresh profile make it an excellent choice for those seeking a light yet satisfying accompaniment. For the best experience, serve the asparagus immediately while it retains its signature crunch, encouraging guests to eat with their fingers for a truly relaxed, alfresco dining feel.

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Ingredients for Grilled Asparagus

  • 450g fresh asparagus

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (use salt according to taste)

How to make Grilled Asparagus

Trim off the tough bottom of the spear by grasping each end and bending it gently until it snaps at its natural point of tenderness—usually two-thirds of the way down the spear. If the spear is less than 6 inches long, chances are it has already been trimmed for you. Alternatively, you can cut the ends off with a knife.

Coat each spear with olive oil by placing clean, dry spears in a resealable plastic bag, pour in the oil, and massage spears to coat each one. Sprinkle with salt and massage again. Leave the asparagus in the bag until ready to cook.

Place on the cooking grate crosswise so it won't fall through. Grill for 10 to 15 minutes (depending on the size and thickness of the stalks), turning occasionally to expose all sides to the heat. Asparagus should begin to brown in spots (indicating that its natural sugars are caramelizing) but should not be allowed to char.

Remove from grill and serve immediately—eating spears with your fingers enhances the experience.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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