This air fryer asparagus with bacon recipe combines the crispiness of asparagus with the savory flavor of bacon, making it a delicious side dish. The air fryer ensures that the asparagus is perfectly cooked while the bacon adds a delightful crunch.
The recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or as a tasty addition to any meal. You can customize it with your favorite seasonings for added flavor.
Visual Appeal of Crispy Air Fryer Asparagus
The vibrant green of fresh asparagus paired with the rich, crispy texture of bacon creates a visually stunning dish.
When plated, the asparagus spears wrapped in bacon stand out beautifully, especially when garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
The contrast between the colors and textures makes this dish not only appetizing but also a feast for the eyes, perfect for impressing guests or elevating a weeknight dinner.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this dish is straightforward and quick, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks.
With just a few simple steps, you can transform fresh asparagus into a delightful side.
The process begins with trimming the asparagus and wrapping each spear in bacon, which adds a savory flavor that complements the natural taste of the asparagus.
Cooking with an Air Fryer
The air fryer is a game changer for achieving that perfect crispiness without the need for excessive oil.
By cooking the bacon-wrapped asparagus at a high temperature, the air fryer ensures that the bacon becomes crispy while the asparagus remains tender.
This method not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the dish on the healthier side, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Flavor Enhancements
While the combination of bacon and asparagus is already delicious, there are opportunities to enhance the flavor further.
Adding garlic powder, salt, and pepper during the preparation phase infuses the dish with additional layers of taste.
For those who enjoy experimenting, consider incorporating other seasonings or herbs to personalize the dish to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation plays a key role in the enjoyment of any dish.
Serving the crispy asparagus on a rustic wooden table adds a charming touch, while a small bowl of dipping sauce can elevate the experience even further.
Whether it’s a tangy ranch or a zesty aioli, the right dipping sauce can complement the flavors of the bacon-wrapped asparagus beautifully.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish offers a delightful balance of flavors while providing nutritional benefits.
With each serving containing a modest amount of calories and a good source of protein, it fits well into a balanced diet.
Enjoying this crispy air fryer asparagus wrapped in bacon allows you to indulge without straying too far from healthy eating habits.
Quick and Easy Air Fryer Asparagus with Bacon
This dish features fresh asparagus spears wrapped in crispy bacon, cooked in an air fryer for a quick and healthy side. The preparation time is minimal, and it serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus and trim the tough ends.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take each slice of bacon and wrap it around an asparagus spear, starting from the bottom and spiraling up to the tip. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Season: In a bowl, toss the wrapped asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer, and if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 5g