Have you ever tasted grilled or smoked asparagus?
Well, if you haven’t, maybe it’s time you should!
In this article, you will learn how to make asparagus on your Traeger pellet smoker.
But if you don’t have a Traeger unit yet, that’s not a problem.
A gas or charcoal grill would also work.
We will also cover what to serve with asparagus. Plus what you should know about preparing asparagus!
Without any further ado, let’s get started.
Table of contents
How to Tell if Asparagus Has Gone Bad
There are several ways to know if asparagus has gone bad.
Look: The stems of asparagus are typically green. But once asparagus has gone bad, the color of the stems will become brownish.
In addition, the asparagus will look frail and bendy when spoilt.
Furthermore, if the vegetable has mold formed on it, it has gone bad and is unsafe to consume.
Smell: Another way to tell if it has gone bad is the smell.
Once the vegetable starts releasing an offensive odor, you should get rid of them immediately.
Touch: If you press the stems of the vegetable and it feels mushy, it has probably gone bad. Toss it away as it is no longer good.
Should Asparagus Be Washed?
Yes, you should wash it.
Like your other favorite vegetables, grit can lurk in between the asparagus stalks.
You don’t want your asparagus to contain any unpleasant sandiness after spending your precious time preparing it!
Find a large bowl and fill it with cold water.
Soak the asparagus in the water for some minutes.
Then rinse off the vegetable properly. That should help remove any sand or stone particles on it.
Can White Asparagus Be Also Grilled?
Yes, white asparagus can be grilled just as green asparagus.
However, you will have to increase the cooking time of your pellet grill as white asparagus is a bit thicker.
Why Is My Grilled Asparagus Soggy?
The reason is that you’ve overcooked it.
Normally, cooking asparagus should only take a few minutes. However, if left to overcook, the asparagus will become soggy.
How Long Would It Take to Cook Asparagus on the Traeger?
If you want it to have a bit of crunch, anywhere between 15 to 20 minutes.
What You Need for Smoked and Grilled Asparagus
- 1 Bunch of asparagus with trimmed ends
- Traeger veggie rub
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (the number of people you want to serve will ultimately determine the quantity of olive oil to be used)
Prep Your Smoker for 250°F
Before smoking asparagus, the first thing you need to do is set the temperature of your Traeger grill to medium heat (350°F)
Allow it to preheat for about 15 minutes.
Trim and Season the Asparagus
First trim the asparagus
Use the olive oil to drizzle the asparagus spears.
After you’ve done that, sprinkle the asparagus with Traeger veggie rub.
Rub it properly to coat all parts of the asparagus.
Smoke the Asparagus
Place the asparagus on the grates in a single layer and close the lid.
Allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
Step 4:
Once tender, collect the asparagus from the hot grill and serve. That’s all!
What Can I Serve With Smoked Asparagus
You can serve smoked asparagus with anything!
How to Store Smoked Asparagus
Asparagus is best eaten when fresh.
It will quickly go mushy and watery when stored in the refrigerator over a long period.
Cooked asparagus can last for as long as 7 days when properly stored in the refrigerator.
However, you can further extend the shelf life of asparagus much longer by storing it in the freezer.
Smoked andf Grilled Asparagus
Equipment
- Smoker
Ingredients
- 1 Bunch of asparagus with trimmed ends
- Traeger veggie rub
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions
- Before smoking asparagus, the first thing you need to do is set the temperature of your Traeger grill to medium heat (350°F) with the lid closed.
- Allow it to preheat for about 15 minutes.
- Use the olive oil to drizzle the asparagus spears.
- After you’ve done that, sprinkle the asparagus with Traeger veggie rub.
- Rub it properly to coat all parts of the asparagus.
- Place the asparagus on the grates in a single layer and close the lid.
- Allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Once tender, collect the asparagus from the hot grill and serve.
Whether grilled or smoked, asparagus is a deliciously simple side dish that you should try.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
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