1. Preparing the Asparagus
- Trim Asparagus: Wash the asparagus and trim the woody ends. You can do this by snapping the ends off where they naturally break or by cutting off the bottom inch.
2. Seasoning the Asparagus
- Season: In a bowl, toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt (if using).
3. Wrapping with Bacon
- Wrap: Take one or two asparagus spears and wrap a slice of bacon around them, starting from the bottom and spiraling up to the top. If the bacon slices are long, you can cut them in half to fit the asparagus better.
4. Preparing the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Cooking the Asparagus
- Arrange: Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time for even cooking.
6. Finishing Touches
- Lemon Juice: If desired, drizzle the cooked asparagus with fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy finish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Even Cooking: Make sure the asparagus spears are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
- Crispy Bacon: If you prefer extra crispy bacon, you can par-cook the bacon slices in the microwave or a skillet for a minute or two before wrapping them around the asparagus.
- Variations: Experiment with different seasonings such as smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve as a delicious appetizer at your next gathering.
- Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete meal.
- Snack: Enjoy as a tasty, low-carb snack any time of the day.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s quick and easy to make. The air fryer ensures that the bacon turns out perfectly crispy while the asparagus remains tender and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the savory goodness of bacon paired with the fresh taste of asparagus, enhanced by a touch of garlic and Parmesan.