Savor the season: How to perfect grilled asparagus this spring

Asparagus season kicks off in May, but thanks to the balmy weather, we've seen the first bunches cropping up at market stalls earlier. As one of the most beloved seasonal veggies, we're granted the luxury of enjoying asparagus for just two months annually.

If a barbecue is on your agenda, don't forget to pick up some asparagus. Nothing compares to grilled asparagus — a straightforward dish that dazzles with its rich flavor profile right from the first bite. While serving it with a poached egg and Hollandaise sauce is divine, it's just as exquisite as a mere dollop of butter sans frills. But how do you grill asparagus to perfection?

Spring blesses us with scrumptious vegetables and fruits, with asparagus taking center stage. This esteemed vegetable finds its way into restaurants, complementing eggs, Hollandaise sauce, and potatoes or starring in a creamy soup made from its tougher ends.

Asparagus is wonderfully low in calories, boasting about 20 kcal per 3.5 ounces, and is comprised of 90 percent water. Yet, it's versatile enough to be baked, boiled, or grilled. Just a brief sizzle in the pan transforms its rigid stems into a crispy delight with a subtle nutty undertone.

Seize the asparagus season to its fullest, as this vegetable is a powerhouse of vitamins and antioxidants, offering significant health benefits. And with its low calorie content, you can enjoy it to your heart's content. The consensus among asparagus aficionados is clear — grilled asparagus not only emerges as the tastiest but also the easiest to prepare variant.

Being predominantly water, asparagus becomes tender rather quickly, which is why it's crucial not to overdo it; otherwise, you'll miss out on its crunch and distinctive, nutty flavor. So, what's the key to preparing mouth-watering, grilled asparagus? Begin by meticulously washing the veggies, then snipping off the tough bases. Lightly coat the stalks with olive oil, then lay them on a preheated grill. Cook for roughly 2 minutes on each side, just until they begin to soften.

What goes well with grilled asparagus? The truth is, they're so flavorful on their own that they hardly need anything else. Should you wish to add a twist, whip up a simple Hollandaise sauce or opt for a yogurt-based one. Such sauces are gentle, complementing the asparagus without masking its delicate, nutty essence. Armed with this knowledge, you're now ready to create the ultimate grilled asparagus dish.