Barbecued asparagus with hazelnuts and mint

Barbecued asparagus with hazelnuts and mint is a vibrant, healthy dish that features grilled asparagus, crunchy hazelnuts, and fresh mint. Drizzled with a pomegranate and olive oil dressing, it's perfect for summer barbecues or light meals.

14 Feb 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2.50 lb asparagus
1 short spray cooking spray oil
1/2 cup hazelnuts
1/3 cup spearmint
2 tbsp pomegranate juice
2 tbsp olive oil

Barbecued asparagus with hazelnuts and mint is a delightful and healthy dish that combines the earthy flavors of asparagus with the crunchy texture of hazelnuts and the refreshing taste of mint. This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for a summer barbecue or a light, nutritious meal.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Asparagus:
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly under cold running water.
- Trim the woody ends of the asparagus spears. You can do this by bending each spear gently until it naturally snaps or by using a knife to cut off about 1-2 inches from the bottom.

2. Toast the Hazelnuts:
- Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add the hazelnuts to the skillet and toast them, shaking the pan frequently to prevent burning, until they are golden brown and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove the hazelnuts from the heat and transfer them to a cutting board.
- Allow them to cool, then roughly chop them.

3. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine the pomegranate juice and olive oil.
- Whisk together until emulsified. Set aside.

4. Grill the Asparagus:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Lay the asparagus spears out on a baking sheet or tray.
- Spray the asparagus lightly with the cooking spray oil.
- Place the asparagus directly on the preheated grill.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have grill marks. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the asparagus.

5. Assemble the Dish:
- Once the asparagus is grilled, transfer it to a serving plate.
- Drizzle the pomegranate and olive oil dressing over the grilled asparagus.
- Sprinkle the chopped toasted hazelnuts on top.
- Finely chop the spearmint leaves and scatter them over the asparagus.

6. Serve:
- Serve immediately while the asparagus is warm for the best flavor. Enjoy this light, refreshing, and healthy side dish!

This barbecued asparagus with hazelnuts and mint recipe is a wonderful addition to any meal. It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors and nutrients. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light main, your guests are sure to be impressed by this vibrant and delicious creation.

Barbecued asparagus with hazelnuts and mint FAQ:

What is the best barbecue time for asparagus?

Grill the asparagus for about 5-7 minutes over medium-high heat. Turn them occasionally until they are tender and have grill marks. Cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the asparagus.

How do I know when the asparagus is done?

Asparagus is done when it is tender and has nice grill marks. You can test doneness by piercing a spear with a fork; it should be easily pierced but still slightly firm.

Can I store leftover cooked asparagus?

Yes, you can store leftover cooked asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the grill to maintain texture.

What can I use instead of hazelnuts?

If you need a substitution, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of hazelnuts, as they provide a similar crunch and flavor profile. Keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly depending on the nut used.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as it contains only plant-based ingredients: asparagus, hazelnuts, mint, olive oil, and pomegranate juice.

Cooking Tips:

- Preheat your barbecue or grill to medium-high heat before you start cooking the asparagus to ensure even cooking.

- Use fresh asparagus for the best flavor and texture. Look for firm, bright green spears with closed tips.

- Be sure to trim the woody ends of the asparagus before cooking for a more tender result.

- Tossing the hazelnuts in a dry pan for a few minutes before chopping will enhance their flavor and add a nice crunch to the dish.

- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of lemon zest to the final dish.

- This dish can also be served cold as a salad. Simply grill the asparagus and let it cool before combining it with the other ingredients.

Nutrition Facts

10 Servings
Calories 60kcal
Protein 3.39g
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 2.96g
Sugar 2.77g
Fat 7g

Barbecued asparagus with hazelnuts and mint