Grilled Asparagus With Garlic Butter

1A. FOR A CHARCOAL GRILL: Open bottom vent completely. Light large chimney starter three-quarters filled with charcoal briquettes (4-1⁄2 quarts). When top coals are partially covered with ash, pour evenly over grill. Set cooking grate in place, cover, and open lid vent completely. Heat grill until hot, about 5 minutes.
1B. FOR A GAS GRILL: Turn all burners to high, cover, and heat grill until hot, about 15 minutes. Turn all burners to medium-high.
2. Combine butter and garlic in bowl. Brush asparagus with butter mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Clean and oil cooking grate. Place asparagus in even layer on grill and cook until just tender and browned, 4 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through cooking. Transfer asparagus to serving platter and serve.

GRILLED ASPARAGUS WITH CHILI-LIME BUTTER
Substitute 1 teaspoon grated lime zest, 1⁄2 teaspoon chili powder, 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1⁄8 teaspoon red pepper flakes for garlic.

GRILLED ASPARAGUS WITH ORANGE-THYME BUTTER
Substitute 1 teaspoon grated orange zest and 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme for garlic.

GRILLED ASPARAGUS WITH CUMIN BUTTER
Reduce garlic to 2 cloves and add 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest, 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1⁄2 teaspoon ground coriander to butter.