Introduction
When it comes to grilling vegetables, nothing beats the taste of fresh asparagus grilled to perfection on an Arteflame. With its signature solid steel flat cooktop that delivers an even sear without burning, this Grilled Ranch-Style Asparagus recipe brings together simplicity and amazing flavor. Inspired by the wide-open spaces and smoky flavors of a Wyoming cookout, this side dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or stands on its own.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh asparagus spears, ends trimmed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill
- Soak three paper napkins in vegetable oil and place them in the base of the grill.
- Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
- Light the paper napkins and allow the firewood to ignite.
- Wait about 20 minutes for the Arteflame to get hot and ready for grilling.
Step 2: Prepare the asparagus
- Rinse and trim the woody ends off the asparagus.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush each spear of asparagus generously with the seasoned butter mixture.
Step 3: Grill the asparagus
- Place the seasoned asparagus spears directly onto the flat top cooktop of the Arteflame grill near the center where it's medium-hot.
- Grill for 5–8 minutes, turning occasionally to get even caramelization and sear on all sides.
- Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese towards the last minute of grilling if using.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the asparagus once tender and charred in spots.
- Serve hot immediately or at room temperature as a delicious Wyoming-style grilled side dish.
Tips
- Use thicker asparagus spears for better grilling results.
- Cook asparagus closer to the center for a quicker char; move outward if needed to control heat.
- The butter not only adds richness but also helps the asparagus brown beautifully without burning.
- No need for pots or pans — the flat griddle top does it all with zero sticking.
- Add squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving for a bright flavor contrast.
Variations
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Lemon Zest Asparagus: Add fresh lemon zest to the butter mixture for a zesty citrus twist.
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Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Wrap small bundles of asparagus spears in bacon before grilling for a smoky, savory side.
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Spicy Chili Asparagus: Mix in red pepper flakes and a dash of smoked paprika into the butter mix for heat and depth.
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Herb Butter Asparagus: Add finely chopped rosemary and thyme to the melted butter before brushing for added earthy flavors.
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Cheesy Ranch Asparagus: Top grilled asparagus with mozzarella and shredded cheddar, letting it melt over the heat for a cheesy delight.
Best pairings
- Reverse-seared ribeye steak
- Grilled chicken thighs with rosemary
- Fresh sourdough bread toasted on the grill
- Chilled Pinot Grigio or iced sweet tea
Conclusion
This Grilled Ranch-Style Asparagus on the Arteflame is as easy as it is delicious. With the perfect sear and incredible flavor, it captures the bold, rustic charm of a Wyoming grill-out. Whether you serve it next to a sizzling steak or enjoy it solo, it's guaranteed to impress.