Grilled Asparagus and Cuisinart Griddler Review

9/2/12 Update: The Griddler began to come up to temperature and then shut itself off two uses after this post. In checking the warranty, I decided it would not be worth the cost of sending it back plus the $10 return shipping they require. So unfortunately I threw it out. Disappointing...

Last year my propane grill literally caught on fire. Flames were shooting out from under the lid, turning off the burners wouldn't put it out and I smelled propane-very scary! Summoning the courage stupidity? to reach in and turn off the propane valve finally extinguished it. I decided to use a gift cert from the boys to get the Cuisinart Griddler.

The Griddler does get nice and hot, the "sear" setting works very well on veggies and meats. Love that it comes with the reversible plates, both griddle and grill. The top is hinged so 2" thick filets fit without a problem and the surface is big enough for 6 filets or pork chops. My suggestion for steaks-use the grill plate on the bottom and griddle on top. That way you get an amazing sear on the top and the grill plate allows juices to run away so the bottom doesn't steam and gets grill marks too, you can decide which side makes a better presentation:@).

Love that the plates can be removed for easy cleaning and they are dish washer safe. For those of us without a dishwasher don't forget my tip about cleaning electric grills-before you sit down to eat, unplug and lay 2 or 3 wet paper towels across the bottom plate and close the lid. It makes clean up so much easier!

So far I've made filet mignon, boneless pork chops (a couple times), potatoes, yes hot dogs:@) and asparagus. Is it the same as grilling outside? No, but it does caramelize and char foods and is a wonderful alternative for folks living alone, in an apartment/dorm or just not wanting to deal with an outdoor grill. If I had the room on my counter, I would leave this out year round but it's light enough to bring out of the closet when I want to use it.

 I'm head over heels for grilled asparagus!

Grilled Asparagus

1. Bend to break and discard bottoms.

2. Rinse and dry well.

3. Drizzle with olive oil.

4. Liberally sprinkle with kosher salt and fresh ground pepper, mix with hands.

5. Using grill plates, grill on "sear" for about 4 minutes. Might take longer for larger spears.

PS-As for outdoor grills, if I ever ran across this little cutie I might just have to pick one up:@)

Have a happy day!