Summer grilling season is here, and what better way to celebrate than with this incredibly flavorful and easy Bacon Wrapped Asparagus recipe? This dish is the perfect side for any barbecue, or even a light and satisfying meal on its own. Forget complicated recipes; this one's quick, healthy, and guaranteed to impress your friends and family. It's the best of both worlds: the smoky sweetness of bacon perfectly complements the tender crispness of grilled asparagus. This recipe is a true testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious dish. Get ready for a taste sensation!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 6 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
-
Prep the Asparagus: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Wash and trim the asparagus, removing any tough ends. Pat them dry with a paper towel; this helps them grill better.
-
Season the Asparagus: In a bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic and onion powder. Make sure each spear is evenly coated.
-
Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each asparagus spear with half a slice of bacon. Secure it with a toothpick if needed, though it often stays put during grilling.
-
Grill to Perfection: Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus on the preheated grill. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the asparagus from the grill and let it rest for a minute or two before serving. Remove toothpicks if used. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect as a side or a light meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Asparagus:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the asparagus enough space to cook evenly. If needed, grill in batches.
- Use high-quality bacon: The flavor of the bacon really shines through in this recipe.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on the thickness of your asparagus and your grill's heat, you may need to adjust cooking time. Always check for doneness.
- Add a touch of sweetness: A drizzle of maple syrup or balsamic glaze before serving adds a delightful sweet and savory contrast.
Variations:
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy twist.
- Cheesy delight: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus before grilling for extra cheesy goodness.
- Herb infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for one serving (approximately 3-4 spears) is:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This Bacon Wrapped Asparagus recipe is a fantastic example of healthy, quick dinner ideas that are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It's a perfect option for homemade cooking, easily adaptable to your preferences, and guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this delicious and simple dish!