Grill Master’s Guide: How to Cook Perfect Bacon Wrapped Asparagus [Step-by-Step Recipe with Stats and Tips]
Short answer: How to cook bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill
To cook bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill, preheat your grill and season your asparagus. Wrap each spear with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Grill until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender. Enjoy!
Tips and tricks for the perfect bacon wrapped asparagus every time you grill
As the weather starts to warm up and we begin to transition into grilling season, many of us are eagerly looking forward to having friends and family over for backyard barbecues. While classic staples like burgers and hot dogs will always be crowd-pleasers, it’s never a bad idea to mix things up a bit with some gourmet appetizers that will make your guests go “wow”. And if you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make yet still elegant and delicious, look no further than bacon-wrapped asparagus.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But wait, isn’t wrapping things in bacon kind of played out?” Hear me out – while it’s true that bacon has become something of an ubiquitous ingredient in modern cuisine (there are even entire restaurants devoted solely to bacon), there’s a reason why it remains so popular: it tastes damn good. And when paired with fresh, crispy asparagus spears? The combination is simply irresistible.
Of course, like with any dish, there are some key tips and tricks you’ll want to keep in mind if you want to achieve the perfect bacon-wrapped asparagus every time. Here are just a few:
1. Choose your ingredients wisely.
Whenever possible, aim for high-quality ingredients – especially when it comes to your bacon. Look for thick-cut strips made from high-grade pork belly; these will hold their shape better on the grill and have more meaty flavor than cheap supermarket brands. As for the asparagus itself? Buy fresh whenever possible (i.e., not canned or frozen) and look for spears that are firm and bright green.
2. Blanch your asparagus before grilling.
Some recipes call for grilling raw asparagus directly wrapped in bacon – but this can often result in uneven cooking times between the two ingredients. To ensure both elements cook evenly (without overcooking one or undercooking the other), consider blanching your asparagus first. This involves briefly immersing the spears in boiling water before promptly transferring them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. Not only does this help ensure even cooking, but it also helps bring out the brightness and crispness of the asparagus.
3. Use toothpicks or skewers to secure your bacon.
While it may be tempting to simply wrap your pre-cooked bacon around your blanched asparagus and call it a day, you run the risk of unraveling or uneven cooking if you don’t have some sort of securing mechanism in place. Toothpicks are often the easiest way to hold everything together – just make sure they’re soaked in water for at least 15 minutes beforehand (this prevents them from burning on the grill). Alternatively, you can use metal skewers to create kabob-like structures with multiple pieces of asparagus and bacon.
4. Cook over a medium heat.
The key to perfectly-grilled bacon-wrapped asparagus is low and slow heat – too high of a temperature will burn your bacon before the asparagus has a chance to cook through properly. Aim for a medium heat (around 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit) and keep an eye on things; you may need to rotate your spears periodically depending on how evenly your grill heats up.
5. Experiment with seasoning.
While salt and pepper might be all that’s needed to elevate classic grilled burgers or steaks, bacon-wrapped asparagus offers plenty more opportunities for flavor experimentation. Try brushing your spears with olive oil infused with garlic, lemon juice, or herbs like rosemary or thyme. Or sprinkle on some cheese (Parmesan or goat cheese work particularly well) during the last minute of grilling for extra decadence.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll have no trouble creating perfect batches of bacon-wrapped asparagus every time you grill – much to the delight of your guests. Whether enjoyed as a pre-meal appetizer or even as a vegetarian main dish, this easy yet impressive recipe is sure to become a go-to for all your summertime entertaining needs.
Frequently asked questions about cooking bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill
As spring and summer roll around, people are spending more time outside enjoying the weather, and what better way to savor the season than firing up the grill? Grilling bacon wrapped asparagus is a popular dish that offers a perfect balance of smoky and salty flavors with fresh, tender asparagus. However, if you’re new to grilling or simply want to brush up on some techniques, here are some frequently asked questions about cooking bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill.
1. How should I prepare my asparagus before wrapping them in bacon?
First, rinse your asparagus spears under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then trim off the woody ends by bending each spear until it snaps naturally at its base. For this recipe, aim for medium-thick spears rather than thin ones that might overcook on the grill.
2. Do I need to pre-cook the bacon before wrapping it around the asparagus?
Nope! You can wrap raw bacon around uncooked asparagus spears before grilling. The heat from the grill will cook both elements simultaneously and infuse them with flavor.
3. Can I use toothpicks or skewers to secure the bacon around each spear?
Yes! Using toothpicks or skewers helps hold everything together while grilling and makes flipping your bundles easier without burning your fingers. Just be sure to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand so they don’t burn on contact with the hot grill.
4. Should I oil my grates before placing my bacon wrapped asparagus on them?
It’s a good idea to lightly coat your grates with cooking spray or oil using a paper towel or brush just before placing down food items, including these bundles of deliciousness! This way you’ll ensure that nothing sticks onto the grate during cooking.
5. How long should these bundles cook on each side?
Aim for five to seven minutes per side, flipping occasionally, for a total cooking time of 10-14 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the bacon is crispy and the asparagus spears are tender but not overly soft.
6. Any tips for serving grilled bacon wrapped asparagus?
Serve these bundles hot off the grill to really impress your guests! They make an excellent side dish or appetizer that’s perfect for summer barbecues or dinner parties. For added pizzazz, squeeze fresh lemon juice over each bundle before serving!
In conclusion, grilling bacon wrapped asparagus is an easy and delectable way to add some excitement to your mealtime gatherings. Be sure to follow these simple tips for a delicious bacon-y treat that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Tools and equipment necessary for cooking delicious bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill
Cooking bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill is an absolute treat for your taste buds. It’s a perfect blend of crispy bacon and tender, juicy asparagus that complements each other so well in terms of textures and flavors. We understand the importance of having the right tools and equipment when it comes to cooking delicious meals, that’s why we’ve put together this article to help guide you through the process with everything you need to know.
First things first, before we start with equipment, let’s talk about how to cook Bacon Wrapped Asparagus perfectly.
Directions –
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approx 400°F)
2. Wrap one slice of bacon around a bundle of 3-4 asparagus spears.
3. Use toothpicks or skewers through each end of the bacon-wrapped asparagus to keep them from unwrapping during grilling.
4. Place them on the grill directly over medium-high heat.
5.Turn them occasionally until they are cooked through and crisp at edges for approx 10-14 minutes
6.Remove from grill after desired texture has been achieved,
7.Let cool for few minutes before removing skewers or toothpicks.
Now that we have our recipe down pat – let’s dive into what we’ll need-
1) GRILL
The most important piece of equipment for this recipe is a quality grill capable of producing consistent heat throughout its surface area—specifically gas grills because they’re quicker and more controllable than charcoal ones – but any type will work! A multi-functional grill works best because you can follow-up with other creative culinary ideas after cooking up your favorite dish.
2) TONGS /SPATULAS
Another essential tool needed when making Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus is tongs or spatulas – they allow easy maneuvering while placing or flipping the asparagus spears without burning yourself.
3) SKEWERS /TOOTHPICKS
To keep your asparagus bundles from unraveling during grilling, it’s necessary to use skewers or toothpicks. Bamboo skewers are an economical option that you can find at most grocery stores.
4) BAKING SHEET
A baking sheet is essential to keep all of the bacon-wrapped asparagus in one place while prepping and transporting them to the grill (a plus point for easy clean-up too).
5) KNIVES / CUTTING BOARD
While a cutting board and knife might seem obvious, don’t underestimate their importance when preparing this dish. Clean them thoroughly before using so that there’s minimal cross-contamination between bacon and raw meat. A sharp kitchen knife works best because it cuts through the bacon and asparagus spears with ease.
In conclusion, when making Bacon Wrapped Asparagus on the Grill, like any other recipe, the appropriate tools/ equipment have a vital role in ensuring that your meal turns out perfect. Moreover, with these tips for cooking delicious Bacon Wrapped Asparagus on the grill, you’ll be impressing guests with ease!
Top 5 facts you didn’t know about cooking bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill
Top 5 Facts You Didn’t Know About Cooking Bacon Wrapped Asparagus on the Grill
Bacon wrapped asparagus is one of those dishes that holds a special place in our hearts. The smoky, salty flavor of the bacon is perfectly balanced with the fresh and green taste of asparagus. When these two ingredients are combined on the grill, magic happens.
But did you know that there are some fascinating facts about cooking bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill? Here are the top 5 facts you probably didn’t know.
1. The Perfect Timing
Grilling bacon wrapped asparagus requires precision timing. If you leave it on too long, your bacon might end up burnt and your asparagus will become mushy. But if you don’t cook it enough, your bacon won’t be crispy and your asparagus will be undercooked.
The trick is to preheat your grill to medium-high and then cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping once halfway through. This ensures that both the bacon and asparagus are cooked to perfection.
2. Delicious Marinade Options
While bacon-wrapped asparagus is delicious on its own, you can take it to a whole new level by marinating it first. For example, you could try marinating your veggies in a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, salt and pepper – or even add lemon juice or honey for extra flavor.
3. Creative Variations
There’s no limit to creative variations when it comes to cooking bacon-wrapped asparagus on the grill! For example, try wrapping prosciutto around your asparagus instead of traditional bacon for an Italian twist – or even experiment with sprinkling grated cheese over them during grilling for that golden brown bake!
4.Healthy Benefits
Not only do has this dish serves mind blowing tastes but also promises great health benefits . With almost zero sugar content , less calories , fewer cholesterol levels present in both fat-free nutrient rich asparagus and nitrite-free natural bacon creates great ways to keep your food intake healthy and tasty at once.
5. Surprisingly Easy
Grilling has always been a hassle-free way of cooking where you can cook outside, enjoy the sunset or nice evenings with friends/family whilst treating yourself to delicious meal options .With just few simple steps this dish is all set to go on the grill without any fuss making it perfect for outdoor dinners, parties or gatherings in large numbers.
So there you have it – five facts that prove why bacon-wrapped asparagus is one of the most delicious and versatile dishes you can cook on the grill. Try out different variations, marinating options, garnishing ideas and impress your friends and family at your next get-together!
Creative ways to serve and present your grilled bacon wrapped asparagus
Bacon has always been a crowd-pleaser and asparagus is a nutrient-packed veggie that never fails to impress. So, why not combine the two for an unforgettable side dish that will have your guests begging for more? If you’re tired of serving this classic combination in the same boring way every time, we’ve got you covered with some creative ways to present your grilled bacon-wrapped asparagus.
1. Crunchy Asparagus Fries
Whoever said fries had to be made of potatoes? Up your fry game and use bacon-wrapped asparagus spears instead! Simply prepare them as you would normally except cut them into thin strips so they resemble french fries, bread them with panko crumbs or any other coating of your choice (we suggest crushed cornflakes!), and deep fry until golden brown. Serve these crunchy veggies alongside your favorite dipping sauce.
2. Asparagus Bundles
Nothing says “fancy” quite like presenting food in bundles tied up with string. To create these show-stopping bundles, first grill or bake individual bacon-wrapped asparagus pieces until crispy. Then group four or five together and tie them up using kitchen twine before serving on a platter.
3. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Skewers
Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best ones! All you need to do is thread several bacon-wrapped asparagus spears onto skewers before grilling or baking them until cooked through. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over top for extra flavor.
4. Miniature Tarts
For an elegant twist on this classic dish, try stuffing bacon-wrapped asparagus into small tart shells before baking in the oven until crispy and golden brown. The result is a mouth-watering combination of buttery pastry, savory bacon, and fresh-as-can-be green vegetables.
5. Asparagus Roll-Ups
These bite-sized appetizers are a breeze to make and are perfect for serving at parties. Simply lay out individual slices of deli ham or salami, add a strip of bacon-wrapped asparagus, sprinkle with your favorite cheese (we suggest goat cheese!), and roll everything up tightly before slicing into bite-sized portions.
In conclusion, creativity knows no bounds when it comes to serving grilled bacon-wrapped asparagus. Whether you’re looking for finger food appetizers or classy side dishes, these five ideas will elevate your grilled veggies game to another level. So why not give them a try and surprise your guests with something new and exciting? They’ll thank you later!
Health benefits of incorporating bacon wrapped asparagus into your regular grilling routine
As summer approaches, we all look forward to enjoying a nice barbecue with our friends and family. And while the traditional hotdogs and burgers are always crowd-pleasers, adding bacon-wrapped asparagus to your grilling routine can bring some added health benefits to your plate.
Firstly, asparagus is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial for maintaining good health. Asparagus contains nutrients such as folate, fiber, vitamins A, C, E and K, which play an important role in regulating blood pressure, boosting the immune system and promoting healthy digestion. Additionally, it’s low in calories (only 27 per cup) making it an excellent choice for those watching their weight.
Now let’s talk about bacon. Bacon often gets a bad reputation due to its high-fat content; however, when consumed in moderation it can actually provide some health benefits. For instance, bacon is a rich source of protein which helps build muscle mass- a key component for overall physical fitness. It also provides essential B-vitamins which are necessary for maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
While bacon-wrapped asparagus may seem indulgent- when cooked properly (without burning)- it really can be a healthy addition to your diet. By using fresh ingredients and cooking everything from scratch you have complete control over what goes into each dish- allowing you to create something delicious that is also nutrient-packed!
In conclusion, incorporating bacon-wrapped asparagus into your regular grilling routine not only tastes great but also provides numerous health benefits. So next time you fire up the grill- consider giving this delicious recipe a try!
Table with useful data:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Asparagus | 1 lb |
| Bacon | 1 lb |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Trim the woody ends off of the asparagus.
- Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Wrap 2-3 asparagus spears with a slice of bacon, overlapping the ends of the bacon underneath the asparagus.
- Secure the bacon in place with a toothpick or skewer.
- Grill the asparagus for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Information from an expert
Cooking bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill is the perfect way to combine two favorite foods. First, prepare your asparagus by washing and trimming off the woody ends. Then, grab a slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each individual spear. Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus on a preheated grill over medium-high heat and cook for about 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking. Once done, remove from heat, let them cool slightly, and serve hot for a deliciously savory appetizer or side dish. Enjoy!
Historical fact: The practice of cooking meat on a stick over an open flame dates back to ancient times, with evidence spanning from prehistoric cave paintings to medieval illustrations. The combination of bacon and asparagus wrapped together for grilling, however, is a modern twist on this age-old tradition.
