This recipe for easy Asparagus Grilled in Foil will give you perfectly seasoned tender stems of asparagus in just 15 minutes. It works beautifully on the grill or in the oven - and since the asparagus is wrapped in foil there's less clean up too!
This easy grilled asparagus recipe is just so convenient as you can throw it on the grill or in the oven while you get on with the rest of the dinner.
It also makes that gas on the BBQ go further. If you light the grill, you might as well use it to cook the side dishes, right?
Cooked asparagus should be soft with a creamy texture, but still retain a slight bite. The goal is tender-crisp—not mushy. Cooking asparagus on the grill in foil protects the tender asparagus spears from direct heat while they cook.
If you love asparagus, try making easy and popular one pan asparagus orzo weeknight dinner.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love Asparagus Stalks Grilled in Foil
- What you'll need
- How to Grill Asparagus in Foil
- Variations & Substitutions
- Tips & Tricks for Perfect Grilled Asparagus
- How To Serve Grilled Asparagus
- Storing
- Reheating
- Can you freeze cooked asparagus?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Pin This Easy Asparagus Grilled in Foil Recipe For Later
- What Do You Think?!
- More Easy Side Dish Recipe Ideas
- Printable Recipe
- Easy Asparagus Grilled in Foil
- Reader Comments & Ratings
Why You'll Love Asparagus Stalks Grilled in Foil
- Prep time is short and cooking time is fast, so this makes a perfect side dish for weeknight dinners.
- This recipe uses only 3 simple ingredients with a touch of seasoning. Make the most of asparagus season!
- Foil packetss means no dishes!
- It also stops those asparagus spears falling through the grill grates without having to buy a grill basket.
- If you're looking for other super easy veggie sides try my Roasted Asparagus & Carrots, my Charred Broccolini with Chili and Lemon or my super fast Microwaved Green Beans.
What you'll need
Find the full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the recipe card below.
Asparagus - this recipe works with both green and white asparagus spears.
To keep your asparagus fresh, place the spears upright in a glass of water and store in the refrigerator.
Oil - I have used extra virgin olive oil for it's wonderful fruity flavor. However, you can substitute with any other oil that you enjoy cooking with.
Seasonings - I keep the seasoning simple, just a touch of sea salt and a crack of black pepper as I don't want anything to overpower the fresh spring flavor of asparagus.
Lemon - I slice up a lemon and place it directly on the grill or the baking sheet. Not only does it look pretty, it can also add some charry zesty zing when you squeeze it over the asparagus.
How to Grill Asparagus in Foil
Find the full detailed instructions in the printable recipe below.
Heat grill or oven to a medium-high heat.
Wash then trim asparagus then prepare by breaking or slicing off the woody ends.
Tear off a large piece of aluminum foil and place the asparagus in the center of the foil. Season well with sea salt and black pepper and drizzle with the olive oil.
Wrap the asparagus up tightly in the foil, folding the edges like you are wrapping a gift.
Place the asparagus foil packet on the grill (or on a baking sheet in the oven) for around 15 minutes until fork tender. Turn once midway through the cooking time.
Meanwhile grill the lemon slices on both sides until they're a little charred.
Check that the asparagus is cooked to your liking then serve hot with the grilled lemon slices.
Variations & Substitutions
I enjoy the simplicity of this dish which allows the spring fresh flavors of the asparagus to really shine. However, if you want to vary the flavor, here are some suggestions for you:
- A scattering of red pepper flakes to add just a touch of heat.
- Add a few sprigs of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme or mint to the parcel. Or you could sprinkle on some garlic powder.
- Swap the fresh lemon juice for lemon zest or slices of zesty lime.
- Drizzle over some balsamic vinegar just before serving.
- Add some thin slices of fresh parmesan cheese to up the protein.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Grilled Asparagus
- Season your asparagus generously with salt and pepper, it will make all the difference to the finished dish.
- Use similar-sized spears so they cook evenly
- Don’t overpack the foil—steam needs space to circulate. For best results spread the asparagus out in a single layer to given them space to roast, rather than steam.
- Did you know one of the easiest ways to trim the asparagus stalk is to bend and snap it exactly where the woody end starts (usually about an inch or so up the stem)
How To Serve Grilled Asparagus
This delicious side dish can be served alongside any main course. I like to serve it as a side when I have the grill on cooking meat. This fresh tasting side works great with my Grilled Lemon & Garlic Chicken Thighs, Asian Marinated Chicken Thighs, Honey Lime Chicken Thighs, Easy Bavette Steak or my Rainbow Chicken Kabobs.
I also like to serve grilled asparagus in place of regular fries for a great tasting low carb side.
Storing
Leftover asparagus should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2–3 days. Make sure it is fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the asparagus gently in foil on the grill or in a low-temperature oven. Heat just until warmed through, as overcooking will make the asparagus soft and soggy. You can also enjoy it cold straight from the fridge, especially in salads or wraps.
Using Leftover Asparagus
Leftover grilled asparagus can be chopped and added to salads, pasta, omelettes, frittatas, salad bowls, or wraps. It also works well as a quick side dish for eggs or lunch plates. You can serve it cold or gently reheat it, depending on your preference.
Can you freeze cooked asparagus?
Yes, but it will be softer once thawed. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2–3 months and use in cooked dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you avoid chewy asparagus?
Firstly, store your asparagus spears in a glass of water in the refrigerator, this will keep them fresh and stop them from wilting.
Secondly, when preparing the asparagus, remove the woody lower stem just before cooking. The woody part of the spear is chewy and unpleasant to eat, especially on thicker stalks.
How do you know when asparagus is done?
The best way to test if asparagus is done, it to pierce the stem with the tip of a sharp knife, the spear should be tender. If it still feels hard, then cook for a few minutes more. Thick asparagus will naturally take longer.
How long does asparagus take to grill in foil?
Typically 10–15 minutes over medium heat, depending on thickness. Thin spears may cook faster, so start checking early.
Do you need to peel asparagus before grilling?
No, peeling is not necessary for most asparagus. Only very thick stalks may benefit from a light peel on the lower half.
Should you soak asparagus before cooking?
No soaking is needed. Instead, rinse well under cold water to remove any grit or sand.
What seasoning goes best with grilled asparagus?
Simple seasonings work best: olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, lemon juice, and parmesan are all popular choices.
Can you grill asparagus without foil?
Yes, but foil helps retain moisture and prevents smaller spears from falling through the grill grates.
Why is my grilled asparagus mushy?
It’s usually overcooked or grilled at too low a temperature. High heat and short cooking time help keep it crisp-tender.
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What Do You Think?!
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This recipe was shared with the #cookblogshare community, which this week was hosted by Helen at FamilyFriendsFood.
More Easy Side Dish Recipe Ideas
Printable Recipe
Easy Asparagus Grilled in Foil
Ingredients
- 1 bunch Asparagus
- 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Sea Salt and Black Pepper
- ½ Lemon - sliced, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the gas grill to medium-high heat or if it has a temperature guage, 425ºF/210ºC. If oven cooking heat the oven to 425ºF/210ºC.
- Wash the asparagus well in cold water.
- Break or slice off the woody ends of the asparagus. The best way to do this is to hold the asparagus stalk between your thumb and finger it will bend and break off at the right place.
- Tear off a large piece of aluminium foil.
- Place the asparagus in the center of the foil, season well with sea salt and black pepper and drizzle with the olive oil.
- Wrap the asparagus up tightly in the foil, folding the edges like you would a gift.
- Place the asparagus foil pack on the grill (or on a baking sheet in the oven) for around 15 minutes, turning once midway through the cooking time.
- Near the end of the cooking time, grill the lemon slices on both sides until they're a little charred, a minute or two on each side. Alternatively roast them in the oven.
- Carefully open the foil to check that the asparagus is cooked to your preferred level. Rewrap and place back on the grill if needed.
- Once ready serve hot with the grilled lemon slices.
Carol says
Here in Suffolk UK it’s Asparagus season. Always handy to have a new Asparagus recipe & this one is easy & especially good
Jo Keohane says
Thanks so much - really glad you liked this one! You get the very best asparagus.
Helen says
This looks delicious! I love the idea of grilled lemon with the tasty asparagus.
Thanks for joining in with #CookBlogShare 🙂
Jo Keohane says
Thanks so much Helen, we make this one a lot!
Janice says
I love to cook in foil and it's a great idea for asparagus, just delicious.
Jo Keohane says
Thanks Janice, I like it too - so easy!
Lesley says
I love roasted asparagus but this is a great method for cooking on the grill. I'll be using this recipe all summer.
Jo Keohane says
Hope you really enjoy! Thanks so much for your comment Lesley