What To Know
- Place the asparagus spears on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Asparagus wrapped in bacon is a delicious and versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of other foods.
- Simply preheat your oven to 400°F, place the asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Ah, the tantalizing aroma of bacon sizzling on the grill. Now imagine that aroma intertwined with the delicate sweetness of grilled asparagus. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive appetizer or side dish, look no further than how to grill asparagus wrapped in bacon. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer barbecues, weekend brunches, or even a weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly easy to assemble and cook, even for beginner grillers.
- Flavor: The smoky bacon perfectly complements the earthy asparagus, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Versatility: You can easily customize this recipe with different seasonings and add-ins to suit your taste.
- Presentation: The beautiful green asparagus wrapped in golden-brown bacon makes for a visually appealing dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Asparagus: Choose fresh, firm asparagus spears.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe, as it holds its shape better during grilling.
- Olive Oil: Adds flavor and helps the asparagus to cook evenly.
- Salt and Pepper: Seasoning to taste.
- Optional Add-ins: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or other herbs and spices.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Grill Asparagus Wrapped in Bacon
1. Prepare the Asparagus: Trim the tough ends of the asparagus spears. You can use a vegetable peeler to remove the tough outer layer if desired.
2. Wrap the Asparagus: Cut the bacon slices in half lengthwise. Wrap each asparagus spear with a half-slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
3. Season: Drizzle the wrapped asparagus with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika at this stage.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F).
5. Grill the Asparagus: Place the asparagus spears on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
6. Serve: Remove the asparagus from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove the toothpicks before serving.
Tips for Grilling Asparagus Wrapped in Bacon
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give the asparagus spears enough space to cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on the bacon: Bacon can burn quickly, so keep a watchful eye and adjust the heat as needed.
- Use a grill brush: Clean your grill grates before grilling to prevent sticking.
- Serve immediately: Asparagus wrapped in bacon is best served hot and fresh.
Creative Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy twist.
- Sweet and Savory: Sprinkle some brown sugar or maple syrup over the bacon before grilling for a sweet and savory flavor.
- Herbaceous Delight: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the seasoning mix.
- Cheesy Goodness: Top the asparagus with shredded cheese before grilling. Parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese work well.
Pairing Suggestions
Asparagus wrapped in bacon is a delicious and versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of other foods. Here are some ideas:
- Salads: Serve asparagus wrapped in bacon alongside a fresh salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Pasta: Add asparagus wrapped in bacon to your favorite pasta dish for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the bacon grease.
Beyond the Grill: Oven-Baked Asparagus Wrapped in Bacon
If you don’t have a grill, you can also bake asparagus wrapped in bacon in the oven. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F, place the asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Grilling asparagus wrapped in bacon is a simple and delicious way to elevate your next meal. Experiment with different seasonings, add-ins, and pairings to create your own signature dish. Enjoy the process and the amazing flavors that await!
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
A: While you can use pre-cooked bacon, it may not achieve the same crispy texture as cooking it from raw. If you choose to use pre-cooked bacon, reduce the cooking time on the grill.
Q: How do I know when the asparagus is done?
A: The asparagus is done when it is tender but still slightly crisp. You can test it by piercing it with a fork.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the asparagus wrapped in bacon ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. Just be sure to remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling to allow it to come to room temperature.
Q: What can I do with leftover asparagus wrapped in bacon?
A: Leftover asparagus wrapped in bacon can be reheated in the oven or microwave. You can also add it to salads, pasta dishes, or omelets.
