Asparagus is a healthy and delicious vegetable that can be cooked in various ways. One of the most popular ways to serve asparagus is by wrapping it in bacon. Bacon wrapped asparagus is a perfect side dish or appetizer that will impress your guests at any dinner party or event. However, one of the most critical factors to consider when preparing bacon wrapped asparagus is how long to cook it.

In this article, we will discuss the ideal cooking time for bacon wrapped asparagus, the best cooking methods, and how to serve it. Let’s dive in!

Preparing the Ingredients

Before cooking bacon wrapped asparagus, you must select the right ingredients. Choosing fresh asparagus and good quality bacon will make all the difference in the final result. You can choose between thick-cut or regular bacon, depending on your preference. Thick-cut bacon will take longer to cook, while regular bacon will cook faster.

Once you have selected the asparagus and bacon, you can start preparing the asparagus by washing and trimming the ends. You should snap off the woody ends of the asparagus by holding the bottom of the spear and bending it gently until it snaps.

After preparing the asparagus, wrap each spear with a slice of bacon. You can wrap the bacon around the asparagus tightly to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.

Cooking Bacon Wrapped Asparagus in the Oven

Cooking bacon wrapped asparagus in the oven is one of the most popular methods. It is easy to do and requires minimal preparation.

The oven temperature for cooking bacon wrapped asparagus should be set at 400°F. Place the bacon wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy. Turn the asparagus halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

Check for doneness by inserting a fork or toothpick into the thickest part of the asparagus. If it goes through easily, it is ready. If not, cook for a few more minutes and check again.

Cooking bacon wrapped asparagus in the oven is perfect for large gatherings or when you need to cook several servings at once.

Now, let’s move onto the next sections to learn how to cook bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill and how to serve it.

Cooking Bacon Wrapped Asparagus on the Grill

If you prefer a smokier flavor, you can cook bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill. The grill method is perfect for outdoor gatherings or when you want to add an extra layer of flavor to your dish.

To start, prepare the grill by preheating it to medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot, place the bacon wrapped asparagus on the grill grates. Grill the asparagus for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.

Checking for doneness is similar to cooking in the oven. Insert a fork or toothpick into the thickest part of the asparagus. If it goes through easily, it is ready. If not, cook for a few more minutes and check again.

Grilling bacon wrapped asparagus will give it a smoky flavor that pairs well with grilled meats and other dishes. It is also a great way to cook asparagus when the weather is warm and you want to enjoy the outdoors.

Serving Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon wrapped asparagus is the perfect side dish for any meal. You can serve it alongside grilled meat, fish, or chicken, or as an appetizer at a party.

For presentation, you can arrange the bacon wrapped asparagus in a circular pattern on a platter. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or chopped herbs on top to add flavor and color.

Bacon wrapped asparagus can be paired with various wines, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Noir, depending on the seasoning and cooking method used.

In conclusion, bacon wrapped asparagus is a simple yet delicious dish that can be cooked in various ways. Whether you prefer to cook it in the oven or on the grill, the ideal cooking time and checking for doneness are vital to ensure that the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender. When serving, you can get creative with presentation and add various toppings to enhance the flavor.