Bacon Wrapped Grilled Asparagus: The Ultimate Guide to Delicious Perfection

Bacon Wrapped Grilled Asparagus: Prepare to elevate your grilling game with this incredibly simple yet utterly irresistible side dish! Imagine the smoky char of perfectly grilled asparagus, its tender stalks yielding to a satisfying bite, all while embraced by crispy, savory bacon. It’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!).

While the exact origins of wrapping vegetables in bacon are shrouded in delicious mystery, the concept itself speaks to a timeless culinary truth: bacon makes everything better! The combination of salty, smoky pork and fresh, vibrant vegetables is a classic pairing found in cuisines around the world. Think of Spanish tapas featuring dates wrapped in bacon, or the Southern tradition of green beans cooked with bacon. This bacon wrapped grilled asparagus recipe simply takes that winning formula outdoors, adding the irresistible allure of the grill.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The asparagus offers a slight bitterness that’s beautifully complemented by the bacon’s saltiness and richness. Grilling adds a smoky depth that elevates both ingredients. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-worthy side dish ready in minutes. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a quick and delicious way to add some greens to your dinner plate, bacon wrapped grilled asparagus is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get grilling!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh asparagus, thick spears preferred
• 1 pound bacon, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt to taste (be mindful of the saltiness of the bacon)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Asparagus and Bacon:

1. Prepare the Asparagus: First, you’ll want to wash the asparagus thoroughly under cold running water. Pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the olive oil adhere better.
2. Trim the Asparagus: Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus spears. You can do this by holding each spear near the end and bending it until it naturally snaps. The point where it breaks is usually the right spot. Alternatively, you can cut the ends off with a knife, removing about 1-2 inches.
3. Season the Asparagus: In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure the asparagus is evenly coated with the oil and spices. This step is crucial for adding flavor to the asparagus, as it can be a bit bland on its own.
4. Prepare the Bacon: Lay out a few slices of bacon on a cutting board. If your bacon slices are very long, you might want to cut them in half. This makes them easier to wrap around the asparagus.
5. Wrap the Asparagus: Take a few asparagus spears (about 3-5, depending on their thickness) and bundle them together. Wrap a slice of bacon tightly around the bundle, starting at one end and overlapping as you go. Secure the bacon end with a toothpick if needed, especially if the bacon is prone to unraveling. Repeat this process until all the asparagus is wrapped. Don’t overcrowd the bundles; you want the bacon to cook evenly.
6. Season the Wrapped Bundles: Lightly sprinkle the bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles with salt. Remember that bacon is already salty, so go easy on the salt.

Grilling the Bacon Wrapped Asparagus:

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean. You can lightly oil the grates with cooking spray or a brush dipped in oil to prevent sticking.
2. Grill the Asparagus: Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles on the preheated grill. Arrange them so that they are not overcrowded. This will allow for even cooking.
3. Cook the Asparagus: Grill the asparagus for about 8-12 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the bacon is cooked through and crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the asparagus and the heat of your grill. Keep a close eye on them to prevent the bacon from burning.
4. Check for Doneness: To check if the asparagus is done, pierce a spear with a fork. It should be tender but still have a slight bite. The bacon should be crispy and golden brown.
5. Remove from Grill: Once the asparagus is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and place it on a platter.
6. Remove Toothpicks (If Used): If you used toothpicks to secure the bacon, carefully remove them before serving.

Serving and Enjoying:

1. Serve Immediately: Serve the bacon-wrapped grilled asparagus immediately while it’s hot and the bacon is crispy.
2. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor and visual appeal.
3. Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or as a side dish to any barbecue meal. It’s also delicious on its own as an appetizer.
4. Storage (If Any Leftovers): If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. Note that the bacon may lose some of its crispness upon reheating.

Tips and Variations:

• Bacon Type: You can use different types of bacon, such as maple-flavored bacon or peppered bacon, for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus during the last few minutes of grilling for a cheesy twist.
• Marinade: Marinate the asparagus in a balsamic vinaigrette for about 30 minutes before wrapping it in bacon for added flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking, or omit them altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Oven Baking: If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the bacon-wrapped asparagus in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
• Air Fryer: You can also cook these in an air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian option, you can wrap the asparagus in prosciutto instead of bacon. Prosciutto is a cured ham that is thinner and less fatty than bacon, but it still adds a delicious salty flavor.
• Garlic Infusion: For a more intense garlic flavor, mince 2-3 cloves of garlic and add them to the olive oil before tossing with the asparagus.
• Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the olive oil mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a little maple syrup or honey over the bacon-wrapped asparagus during the last few minutes of grilling for a sweet and savory flavor combination.

Important Considerations:

Bacon Safety:

Always ensure that the bacon is cooked thoroughly to prevent any foodborne illnesses. The internal temperature of cooked bacon should reach 165°F (74°C).

Grill Safety:

Never leave a grill unattended while it is in use. Keep a close eye on the asparagus to prevent the bacon from burning. Use heat-resistant gloves and utensils when handling hot food on the grill.

Asparagus Quality:

Choose asparagus spears that are firm, bright green, and have tightly closed tips. Avoid asparagus that is limp, wilted, or has open tips.

Salt Content:

Be mindful of the salt content of the bacon when adding salt to the asparagus. Taste the bacon before adding any additional salt to avoid over-salting the dish.

Conclusion:

This Bacon Wrapped Grilled Asparagus isn’t just another side dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The smoky bacon, the tender-crisp asparagus, and that hint of char from the grill create a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone reaching for more. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be making it all summer long. It’s the perfect way to elevate any barbecue, weeknight dinner, or even a fancy brunch. But why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible flavor, it’s incredibly simple to make. We’re talking minimal ingredients and a cooking process that’s practically foolproof. Even if you’re a beginner griller, you can absolutely nail this recipe. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get your veggies in! Who can resist asparagus when it’s wrapped in crispy, salty bacon? It’s a win-win for everyone. And the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Looking for serving suggestions? Serve these bacon-wrapped bundles alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete and satisfying meal. They’re also fantastic as an appetizer at your next party. Imagine your guests’ faces when you bring out a platter of these beauties! Want to take it up a notch? Consider these variations: * Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the bacon before wrapping for a little kick. * Sweet and savory: Drizzle a touch of maple syrup or honey over the asparagus before grilling for a delightful sweet and savory combination. * Cheese, please!: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus during the last few minutes of grilling for a cheesy, melty finish. * Herbaceous delight: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme under the bacon before wrapping for an aromatic twist. * Lemon zest: A little lemon zest brightens up the flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! The possibilities are endless. I truly believe that this Bacon Wrapped Grilled Asparagus will become a staple in your grilling repertoire. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. So, fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience asparagus like never before. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you try any of the variations? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and comments below! Let’s create a community of bacon-wrapped asparagus enthusiasts! I can’t wait to see what you create. Happy grilling!

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