Grilled Asparagus With Pomegranate Molasses Dressing

Grilled asparagus is the perfect BBQ side dish because it is so delicious and easy to prepare! These spears of grilled asparagus turn out flavorful, well balanced, and tender on the inside while staying crispy on the outside. Although they may just seem like grilled asparagus, the dressing makes it a dish to remember. These asparagus will surely impress your friends and family!

My secret ingredient for this side dish is pomegranate molasses. I used a pomegranate molasses reduction for this recipe, which is similar in consistency to balsamic vinegar but is a bit sweeter. The pomegranate flavor balances the tartness in the asparagus and gives the dish a depth of flavor. Luckily, it is also very easy to make.

Are Asparagus Healthy?

Yes! Asparagus is excellent for your health. It is packed with vitamins such as vitamins A, C, E, and K. Asparagus is also known to be a great source of fiber that helps your digestive system function properly. It can also help boost your mood as it contains plenty of vitamin B-12, a supplement commonly used to fight depression. 

How to Prepare Asparagus for the Grill?

Before you start cooking, you need to get the asparagus ready! One of the most important parts of preparing the asparagus is removing the woody end. You can cut the bottom of asparagus spears by bending them and letting them snap or using a knife and cutting them off. After washing them and patting them dry, you should also toss them with a bit of olive oil. Add just enough to coat them. This will prevent the asparagus from sticking to the grill or burning. When you place them on the grill, line them up in a single layer with a bit of space between each spear. Proper spacing will allow airflow and make them grill evenly.

What Type of Asparagus Should I Use? 

The most important thing to consider while picking out your asparagus is how thick each spear is. If the asparagus is too thin, it will fall between the metal prongs of the grill. Be sure to pick out asparagus that is thick enough to hold above the grill and not fall into the fire. You can choose any kind of asparagus, including white asparagus. Again, just make sure they are thick! 

What is Pomegranate Molasses? 

Pomegranate Molasses is a thick syrup made from pomegranate juice, lemon juice, and sugar commonly found in the Middle east. The ingredients are put in a saucepan to reduce into a thick syrup. Pomegranate molasses can then be used in various dishes to add a subtle, sweet taste to dishes such as salads, meat, or dips. By adding pomegranate molasses to the asparagus, this vegetable dish will have the perfect balance of savory and sweet. The grilled asparagus will be lightly smoky, and the pomegranate molasses provides a bright, sweet, and tangy flavor.