x

The Best BBQ Delivered to You!

Sign up here for Steven’ Raichlen’s weekly Up in Smoke e-newsletter (and get a free ‘Best Burgers’ e-book!).


Menu

Vegetables

Lemon-Sesame Asparagus Rafts

Pinning the asparagus stalks into rafts looks cool as all get out and makes them easy to grill and turn.


Print

Lemon-Sesame Asparagus Rafts

Recipe Notes

  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Method: Direct Grilling
  • Equipment: toothpicks or slender bamboo skewers

Ingredients

For the asparagus:

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Asian (toasted) sesame oil

For the rub:

  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon each coarse salt and coarsely ground black pepper

Recipe Steps

Step 1: Snap the fibrous ends off the asparagus stalks. Lay 4 or 5 stalks side by side and pin them crosswise at the top and bottom to make rafts. Brush the rafts on both sides with sesame oil.

Step 2: Combine the ingredients for the rub in a small bowl and mix well. Sprinkle the asparagus rafts on both sides with rub.

Step 3: Set up your grill for direct grilling and preheat to high. Brush and oil the grill grate.

Step 4: Grill the asparagus until tender and browned on both sides, 3 to 4 minutes per side.

Step 5: Serve at once, warning everyone to remove the toothpicks before eating.