Grilled Asparagus

Grilled Asparagus

We know, summer is over, but here in California do we really stop using our grills?  One of the easiest and tastiest ways to cook many vegetables is on the grill and one of our favorites is asparagus. 

• 1 lb Asparagus - thick spears
• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
• 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
• Pepper (if you like it)

1. Pre-heat grill for high, direct heat.
2. Prepare the asparagus by washing and breaking off the tough bottom ends.  Place the asparagus in a pan or a ziplock bag and coat with olive oil and sprinkle with a few shakes of salt and some pepper.  (You can also get fancy with 1/4 tsp hot pepper flakes or some garlic salt, but it tastes good with just salt and pepper as well.)  If I am making for a lot of people, I use a ziplock bag so that I can get oil on all of the asparagus without using a lot and making a big mess. 
3. Keep oil in ziplock or pan to keep them contained near the grill.
4. Grill the asparagus spears for 6-10 minutes until you develop a nice char and they are fork tender.  Be sure to turn them every few minutes so they brown evenly.  (Watch out for rolling asparagus!  I always lose a few spears through the grate!)
5. Remove to a new tray, serve immediately.

Serves around 4 for 1/4 lb each