Meta Description: Try this simple and delicious combination of salty bacon and tender asparagus in this easy recipe! Ready in just 25 minutes with five ingredients, Perfect for weeknights or parties.

Savor the irresistible combination of savory bacon and tender asparagus in this quick and easy recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Get ready to indulge in the smoky richness of bacon and the freshness of asparagus, all wrapped up in each delicious bite.

Can we substitute the bacon or any other alternative for a lighter version?

Yes, you can absolutely substitute regular bacon with other lean protein alternatives to make this dish lighter. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as leaner proteins may cook faster than regular bacon.

• Turkey Bacon/Thinly Sliced Deli Turkey: Turkey bacon is a popular substitute for traditional bacon due to its lower fat and calorie content. Made from turkey meat, it offers a similar texture and smoky flavor to regular bacon but with less saturated fat. When using turkey bacon in this recipe, keep in mind that it may cook faster than traditional bacon, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent it from becoming overly crispy. For a lean and versatile option, consider using thinly sliced deli turkey as a substitute for bacon.
• Canadian Bacon: Also known as back bacon, Canadian bacon is another lean option that can be used as a substitute. It is made from lean pork loin and has a slightly sweeter and milder flavor compared to traditional bacon. Canadian bacon is typically pre-cooked and sliced thinly. Since it is already cooked, you may only need to heat it briefly in the oven or skillet before adding it to the recipe.
• Prosciutto: Prosciutto is a dry-cured Italian ham that adds a unique flavor and texture to dishes. While it is higher in sodium than traditional bacon, it is lower in fat and calories, making it a lighter alternative. Keep in mind that prosciutto tends to crisp up quickly, so be mindful of the cooking time to prevent it from becoming too crunchy.

What are some good ways to cook the bacon-wrapped asparagus for a healthier cooking method?

Air-frying or grilling bacon-wrapped asparagus is a great way to achieve a healthier cooking method while still enjoying delicious flavors.

• For air-frying, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and place the bacon-wrapped asparagus in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
• For grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus directly on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender. You can also use a grill basket or skewers to make flipping easier. Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the dish, enhancing its overall taste.

Are there any low-carb vegetable replacements for the asparagus?

Yes, if you are looking for low-carb vegetable replacements for asparagus, green beans or zucchini are excellent options. Both green beans and zucchini have a similar texture to asparagus and can be wrapped in bacon and cooked in the same way. Green beans provide a crunchy texture, while zucchini adds a softer, more tender bite. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables to find your favorite combination.

What to serve with bacon-wrapped asparagus?

To turn bacon-wrapped asparagus into a complete meal, you can add various side dishes such as:

• Potatoes: Roasted or mashed potatoes complement the savory flavors of the bacon-wrapped asparagus and add a satisfying starch component to the meal.
• Grains: Serving bacon-wrapped asparagus with quinoa or couscous seasoned with herbs and spices can add depth and complexity to the meal. These grains provide a nutritious and hearty base that complements the flavors of the bacon and asparagus.
• Green/Citrusy salad: A mixed green or citrusy salad (featuring ingredients like oranges, grapefruits, and mixed greens) with a light vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and balance to the meal.
• Grilled or Roasted Protein: Pairing bacon-wrapped asparagus with grilled or roasted protein like chicken, steak, or fish can create a hearty and satisfying main course. The smoky flavor of the bacon complements the savory richness of the protein, creating a delicious combination.

Bacon, Wrapped Asparagus – The Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 pound asparagus spears, trimmed

8 slices bacon, halved lengthwise

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Olive oil for drizzling

Bacon asparagus Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Divide the asparagus spears into four equal portions.
4. Take two slices of halved bacon and wrap them tightly around each portion of asparagus, ensuring that the spears are fully covered.
5. Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
6. Drizzle a little olive oil over the bacon-wrapped asparagus and season with salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
8. Once cooked, remove the bacon-wrapped asparagus from the oven and transfer it to a serving platter. Serve immediately.