How to Do Asparagus on Blackstone: Expert Tips and Tricks Revealed

Are you ready to elevate your asparagus game? Forget bland, boiled spears – it’s time to embrace the smoky, char-grilled goodness of Blackstone asparagus. This versatile grilling surface offers a unique way to cook asparagus, resulting in tender, flavorful spears with a delightful crunch. If you’re wondering how to do asparagus on blackstone, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from prepping to serving, ensuring you achieve Blackstone asparagus perfection every time.

Gather Your Gear: Essential Blackstone Asparagus Tools

Before you start grilling, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Blackstone Griddle: The heart of your asparagus operation.
• Spatula: For flipping and maneuvering the asparagus on the hot griddle.
• Tongs: To safely transfer the asparagus to and from the griddle.
• Cutting Board: For prepping your asparagus.
• Chef’s Knife: To trim the asparagus ends.
• Measuring Cup: For measuring any seasonings or liquids.
• Bowl: To hold the asparagus while you prep it.

Selecting the Perfect Asparagus

The quality of your asparagus is crucial for a delicious outcome. Look for vibrant green spears with firm tips and a slightly glossy appearance. Avoid asparagus that is wilted, yellowed, or has dry, brittle stems.

Prepping Asparagus for Blackstone Grilling

Proper prepping is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Follow these steps:

1. Trim the Ends: Using a chef’s knife, trim the woody ends of the asparagus spears. The best way to determine where to cut is to snap the bottom of the spear. It will naturally break at the point where the stem becomes tough.
2. Wash and Dry: Rinse the asparagus thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Seasoning Options for Blackstone Asparagus

The beauty of grilling asparagus on a Blackstone is the ability to customize your seasonings. Here are a few popular options:

• Simple Salt and Pepper: A classic combination that allows the asparagus’ natural flavor to shine.
• Garlic and Herb: Add a touch of fresh garlic and your favorite herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
• Lemon and Parmesan: A tangy and savory combination that complements the asparagus beautifully.
• Spicy Chipotle: For those who like a little heat, add some smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Grilling Asparagus on a Blackstone

Now comes the fun part! Follow these steps for perfectly grilled asparagus:

1. Preheat Your Blackstone: Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
2. Oil the Griddle: Lightly brush the hot griddle surface with a high-heat oil like avocado, grapeseed, or canola oil.
3. Add the Asparagus: Place the asparagus spears directly on the hot griddle. If you have a large amount, work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
4. Grilling Time: Grill the asparagus for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender-crisp and lightly charred. You’ll know they’re ready when they have a nice golden brown color and are easily pierced with a fork.
5. Seasoning: While the asparagus is grilling, season them with your favorite seasonings. If using garlic and herbs, sprinkle them towards the end of the grilling time.

Serving Blackstone Asparagus

Once your asparagus is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve! Here are some serving ideas:

• As a Side Dish: Blackstone asparagus makes a fantastic side dish for any grilled meal, from burgers and steaks to chicken and fish.
• In Salads: Add a touch of smoky flavor to your salads by incorporating grilled asparagus.
• With Dips: Serve your asparagus with a variety of dips, such as hummus, pesto, or aioli.

Beyond Basic Asparagus: Experiment with Flavor

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your Blackstone asparagus! Here are some ideas for flavor combinations:

• Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Wrap each spear in a strip of bacon and grill until the bacon is crispy.
• Asparagus with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the cooked asparagus for a sweet and tangy touch.
• Asparagus with Lemon Butter: Melt butter with lemon juice and minced garlic, then drizzle over the asparagus.

Tips for Blackstone Asparagus Success

• Don’t Overcrowd the Griddle: Give the asparagus plenty of space to cook evenly.
• Watch the Heat: Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
• Don’t Overcook: Asparagus is best when tender-crisp, so don’t overcook it.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to try different flavor combinations.

Blackstone Asparagus: A Delicious and Versatile Side Dish

Grilling asparagus on a Blackstone is a simple yet effective way to elevate this humble vegetable. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious and flavorful side dish that will impress your friends and family. So, fire up your Blackstone, grab some fresh asparagus, and get ready to enjoy the smoky goodness of this versatile grilling technique.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I grill asparagus on a Blackstone on low heat?

A: While you can technically grill asparagus on low heat, it will take longer to cook and you’ll likely end up with steamed asparagus rather than charred asparagus. Medium-high heat is ideal for achieving that perfect char.

Q: How do I know if the asparagus is cooked?

A: The asparagus should be tender-crisp and easily pierced with a fork. It will also have a nice golden brown color and a slight char.

Q: Can I grill asparagus on a Blackstone with other vegetables?

A: Absolutely! You can grill asparagus alongside other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a flavorful and colorful side dish.

Q: What are some good dipping sauces for Blackstone asparagus?

A: Some popular dipping sauces for Blackstone asparagus include hummus, pesto, aioli, ranch dressing, and even a simple lemon-butter sauce.