Name: Grilled Asparagus
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds asparagus , rinsed and ends snapped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Table salt; Ground black pepper

Why This Recipe Works

To determine the best and easiest asparagus recipe for jumbo or medium spears, we tried boiling and microwaving. But in the end, steaming got our vote as the best asparagus recipe. Not only was it faster than boiling, it resulted in a more healthful plate of asparagus, peeled or not. And forget about microwaving asparagus entirely: It shriveled and dried the spears out. For the best grilled asparagus, we steamed the spears first, and then grilled them briefly to give them some smoky flavor.

Before You Begin

For really great-tasting asparagus you should grill it over charcoal or wood. A gas grill will do in a pinch but, unfortunately, a broiler doesn't do the trick.

Instructions

Bring 1 inch water to boil in a soup kettle. Put asparagus in steamer basket, then carefully place steamer basket in kettle; cover and steam over medium-high heat until asparagus spears are slightly undercooked, about 4 minutes for medium spears. Drain and plunge spears immediately into ice water to stop the cooking process.

Heat grill. Remove asparagus from ice water and pat dry with paper towels. Toss asparagus in oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Grill asparagus until marked, about 2 minutes on each side. Serve hot or at room temperature, unadorned or with a vinaigrette.