Are you a fan of bacon and asparagus? If so, then you are in for a mouthwatering treat! In this article, we will be exploring how to make bacon-wrapped asparagus in an air fryer. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also incredibly delicious. By using an air fryer, you can achieve that crispy, flavorful bacon and tender asparagus that will leave your taste buds begging for more. So, let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this delectable dish!
Gather the Ingredients
Before we start, let’s gather all the ingredients we need to make this delicious recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Fresh asparagus spears
– Thin-cut bacon slices
– Olive oil
– Garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing the Asparagus
The first step in making bacon-wrapped asparagus is preparing the asparagus itself. Start by trimming off the woody ends of the asparagus spears. You can do this by holding each spear at its bottom and bending it gently until it snaps naturally. Discard the tough ends and keep the tender part for cooking.
Seasoning the Asparagus
Once you have trimmed the asparagus, it’s time to season it. Drizzle some olive oil over the asparagus spears and sprinkle them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the spears gently to ensure they are well coated with the seasoning.
Wrapping the Asparagus
Now comes the fun part – wrapping the asparagus with bacon! Take one bacon slice and wrap it around an asparagus spear. You can start from the bottom and make your way up to the tip. Repeat this process with the remaining asparagus spears.
Prepping the Air Fryer
Before cooking the bacon-wrapped asparagus, you need to preheat your air fryer. Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up for a few minutes. Preheating the air fryer ensures that the bacon becomes crispy while the asparagus cooks evenly.
Arranging the Asparagus
Once your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to arrange the bacon-wrapped asparagus. Place the wrapped spears in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. If necessary, cook them in batches to avoid any overlapping.
Cooking Time
Now that everything is set, it’s time to cook the bacon-wrapped asparagus in the air fryer. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for around 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them and flip the asparagus halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and cooking.
Finding the Perfect Crispiness
The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and the desired level of crispiness. If you prefer your bacon to be extra crispy, you can leave it in the air fryer for a couple more minutes. However, be cautious not to overcook the asparagus, as it may become mushy.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the bacon-wrapped asparagus is cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the air fryer basket. Place them on a serving platter to cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a delightful combination of smoky bacon and tender asparagus.
Pairing and Dipping Options
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other dishes. It makes a fantastic appetizer or side dish for any meal. For an extra burst of flavor, you can serve it with a zesty dipping sauce like chipotle aioli or garlic mayo.
Tips and Variations
– If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can use turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon. It will still provide that delicious flavor without the added fat.
– Experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste. Try adding smoked paprika, parmesan cheese, or even a sprinkle of lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
– For a touch of sweetness, you can brush the bacon-wrapped asparagus with a little maple syrup or honey before cooking. This will create a delightful glaze and add a subtle sweetness to the dish.
Conclusion
Making bacon-wrapped asparagus in an air fryer is an easy and delicious recipe that will elevate your cooking game. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the perfect combination of crispy bacon and tender asparagus. So, grab your air fryer, get the ingredients ready, and indulge in this mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. Happy cooking!