For Superior Grilled Asparagus, Try Skewering Them

Skewering asparagus before grilling offers a simple yet effective method to enhance both the cooking process and the final presentation. By threading asparagus spears onto skewers, you ensure even cooking and make it easier to turn multiple spears at once, reducing the risk of losing any through the grates. This technique also helps achieve a uniform char, enhancing the natural flavors of the asparagus with a smoky, caramelized finish. Before skewering, it's advisable to trim the woody ends and toss the spears in olive oil, salt, and pepper, or your choice of seasoning, to enhance their taste. Skewering can also facilitate the addition of other ingredients like cherry tomatoes or slices of lemon, offering visual appeal and complementary flavors. Grilled asparagus skewers are not only convenient for cooking but also for serving, providing an attractive presentation that works well for both casual barbecues and more formal gatherings. Additionally, this method can be adapted for various grill types, from charcoal to gas, and even oven broiling, making it versatile for different cooking setups. Ultimately, skewering asparagus offers a blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal, making it a worthwhile technique for anyone looking to elevate their grilled vegetable game.
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You can't go wrong with a kabob

An alternative to sacrificing your asparagus to the grill gods is to create kabobs using skewers. Although this approach takes a bit more time, it allows for creativity with any protein or vegetables you choose. Similar to the "raft" technique, kabobs are easy to turn on the grill and promote even cooking. Whether you're aiming for perfectly grilled chicken, flavorful steak, or hearty tofu, be sure to cut your asparagus spears into approximately 1-inch pieces. Assemble your ingredients on the skewer, brush them with your favorite marinade or sprinkle with seasoning, and they’re ready for grilling.

You might be wondering, "Doesn't a grill basket solve the issue of asparagus falling through the grates? Why go through the hassle of skewering?" While it's true that a grill basket or wire rack can be used, if you don’t have one or prefer not to buy one, skewers are a practical solution. Moreover, grill baskets and wire racks can still have gaps large enough for thin or chopped vegetables to fall through, bringing you back to the original dilemma.

So, don’t hesitate to pick up that bunch of asparagus at the farmers' market. Whether you opt for the raft method or the kabob method, skewering asparagus will yield a crispy, deliciously smoky vegetable that pairs wonderfully with any meal.

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