What To Know
- Place the wrapped asparagus spears on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Add the wrapped asparagus spears to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Asparagus wrapped in bacon is a truly versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course.
Asparagus wrapped in bacon is a classic appetizer that’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to make, but the smoky flavor of the bacon and the tender-crisp asparagus make it a truly irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving it as a starter for a dinner party or just looking for a quick and easy snack, this recipe is sure to impress.
The Perfect Pairing
The combination of asparagus and bacon is a match made in culinary heaven. The delicate, earthy flavor of the asparagus is perfectly complemented by the salty, smoky bacon. Plus, the bacon acts as a natural barrier, keeping the asparagus moist and preventing it from becoming too dry.
Choosing the Right Asparagus
The key to making delicious asparagus wrapped in bacon is to start with fresh, high-quality asparagus. Look for spears that are firm, bright green, and have tightly closed tips. Avoid asparagus that is limp, yellowed, or has open tips.
Preparing the Asparagus
Once you have your asparagus, it’s time to prepare it for wrapping.
1. Trim the ends. Use a sharp knife to trim off the tough, woody ends of the asparagus spears. You can tell where to cut by bending the spears – the point where they snap is where the tough part ends.
2. Wash and dry. Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Wrapping the Asparagus
Now for the fun part!
1. Cut the bacon. Cut each bacon slice in half lengthwise.
2. Wrap the asparagus. Lay a bacon half on a flat surface, then place an asparagus spear on top. Wrap the bacon around the asparagus, tucking the ends underneath to secure. You can use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place if you prefer.
Cooking the Asparagus Wrapped in Bacon
You have a few options for cooking your asparagus wrapped in bacon:
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the wrapped asparagus spears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the wrapped asparagus spears on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Pan-frying: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the wrapped asparagus spears to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Serving Suggestions
Asparagus wrapped in bacon is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of dipping sauces. Some popular options include:
- Honey mustard sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the savory bacon and asparagus.
- Ranch dressing: A classic choice that always goes well with bacon.
- Blue cheese dressing: A bolder flavor that pairs well with the richness of the bacon.
- Aioli: A creamy garlic sauce that adds a touch of elegance to the dish.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips for making the best asparagus wrapped in bacon:
- Use thick-cut bacon: Thick-cut bacon will hold its shape better during cooking and will also result in a crispier final product.
- Don’t overcook the asparagus: Asparagus can become tough if overcooked, so make sure to cook it until it’s just tender.
- Serve immediately: Asparagus wrapped in bacon is best served hot and fresh.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Asparagus wrapped in bacon is a truly versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious and impressive dish that will impress your guests.
Top Questions Asked
1. Can I make asparagus wrapped in bacon ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make asparagus wrapped in bacon ahead of time. Simply wrap the asparagus and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook it, bake, grill, or pan-fry as usual.
2. What if my asparagus is too thick?
If your asparagus spears are too thick, you can cut them in half lengthwise before wrapping them in bacon. This will ensure that the asparagus cooks evenly.
3. What other vegetables can I wrap in bacon?
You can wrap a variety of vegetables in bacon, including:
- Cherry tomatoes: For a sweet and savory bite.
- Green beans: For a classic combination.
- Mushrooms: For a hearty and earthy flavor.
- Bell peppers: For a colorful and flavorful addition.
4. Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can make asparagus wrapped in bacon healthier by:
- Using turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is lower in fat and calories than traditional bacon.
- Using less bacon: You can wrap the asparagus with half a slice of bacon instead of a whole slice.
- Serving it with a light dipping sauce: Instead of heavy sauces like ranch or blue cheese, try a light and refreshing sauce like honey mustard or aioli.
5. Can I freeze asparagus wrapped in bacon?
It’s not recommended to freeze asparagus wrapped in bacon. The asparagus will become mushy when frozen and thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked asparagus wrapped in bacon. Simply cool the cooked asparagus completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
