Easy Marinated Grilled Asparagus Recipe
Grilled marinated asparagus is one of the easiest side dishes to make, but the quick marinade is what makes this version worth repeating. It adds enough flavor to make asparagus worth looking forward to while helping keep the asparagus from drying out on the grill. This recipe cooks in minutes and pairs well with almost anything, making it an easy choice for weeknight dinners or summer grilling.
Updated May 2026: Refreshed with easier instructions, practical tips, and flexible ingredient ideas.
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When it’s in season, asparagus is on our table almost every night. We grill it, roast it or turn it into an asparagus salad with beans and tomatoes.
Recipe Highlights
Prep Time: 10 Minutes
Cook Time: 8 Minutes
Marinating Time: 30 Minutes
Total Time: 48 Minutes
Serves: 4 – easy to adjust,
Home kitchen tested
- Quick and Easy -A simple side dish that cooks in minutes with very little prep.
- Prep Ahead Friendly – The asparagus can marinate ahead of time so dinner comes together faster later.
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Ingredient Notes
- Fresh asparagus – Thick asparagus spears work best for grilling because they stay tender and hold up better over the heat.
- Extra virgin olive oil – Forms the base of the marinade and helps coat the asparagus so it cooks evenly on the grill. Avocado oil or your favorite cooking oil can also be used.
- Balsamic vinegar – Adds slightly sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with the smoky grilled asparagus.
- Soy sauce – Adds savory umami flavor. Tamari sauce or coconut aminos work well too.
- Garlic – Fresh crushed garlic gives the marinade the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Sesame oil – Adds a subtle nutty flavor and extra depth to the marinade. If you don’t have it, simply leave it out.
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How to Make Marinated Grilled Asparagus
- Prepare the ingredients: clean and trim the woody ends off of the asparagus. and measure the marinade ingredients
- Prepare the marinade: Mix the marinade ingredients in a small bowl or mason jar, then pour it over the trimmed asparagus. For extra flavor, marinate the asparagus overnight.
- Marianate: Stir in the white wine and cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes, then reduce the heat to low.
- Add tomatoes: Stir in the tomatoes and simmer over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Grill and baste: Place the asparagus in a single layer on a preheated grill, grill basket or grill pan over medium heat, and grill, basting it periodically.
- Transfer to a plate: Continue cooking the asparagus for about 8 minutes, until it’s tender. Transfer the spears to a serving plate, then pour the remaining grilled asparagus marinade over the top.
Make it Your Own
This grilled asparagus recipe is easy to change. Here are some suggestions.
- Balsamic: Add a little extra balsamic vinegar to the marinade for a slightly sweeter, richer flavor.
- Lemon Parmesan: Skip the sesame oil and finish the grilled asparagus with fresh lemon juice and grated parmesan cheese.
- Spicy Garlic: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce to the marinade for a little heat.
- Feta and Herb Topping: Sprinkle the grilled asparagus with crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill before serving.
- Roasted Instead of Grilled: No grill? Roast the marinated asparagus in a 425-degree oven for about 12 to 15 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover marinated grilled asparagus can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days in an airtight container. Leftovers can be enjoyed reheated, cold, or added to a salad. You can also use leftover grilled asparagus to make this asparagus salad with white beans.
Need help making veggies more exciting?
This guide has flavor tips and simple techniques to make any vegetable delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Served marinated grilled asparagus garnished with lemon rind or lemon slices with grilled chicken, pork or shrimp.
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Marinated Grilled Asparagus
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic crushed
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
Instructions
- Chop or crush the garlic, and mix the ingredients for the marinade together.
- Clean the asparagus and trim off the ends and place it into a bowl.
- Pour the marinade over the asparagus and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat a grill over medium to high heat. Once the grill is hot, arrange the asparagus on a grill topper or grill grates and cook them for 8 minutes.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and can vary based on cooking methods and ingredients used
Grilled Asparagus Frequently Asked Questions
Fresh asparagus can be gritty, so you will need to rinse it well or soak it in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes, then rinse it off to remove the grit.
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus. Just be sure to thaw it out and pat it dry. Keep in mind that the texture will not the same as fresh, it will be softer.
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