**Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus: A Game-Changing Recipe for a Delicious and Healthy Snack**
I still remember the day I attempted to make asparagus for my family dinner. I had high hopes, thinking that simply tossing some spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper would result in a tasty side dish. Boy, was I wrong! The asparagus ended up being soggy, flavorless, and an overall disappointment. My family politely declined seconds, and I was left feeling defeated.
Fast forward to the next evening, when I decided to give air frying a try. I had heard great things about this method of cooking, but never thought it would revolutionize my snack game. That’s when I stumbled upon the magical combination: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus. The result was nothing short of amazing – crispy, smoky, and utterly delicious.
So, what makes this recipe so special? Let me break it down for you:
**Why This Recipe Works**
The key to success lies in the perfect balance of texture and health. By air frying asparagus wrapped in bacon, we’re able to achieve a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the veggies tender and juicy inside. Plus, using lean bacon (like Wright Brand Thick-Cut Bacon) ensures that our snack is relatively low in fat.
**Ingredients**
For this recipe, you’ll need:
* 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
* 6 slices of lean bacon (Wright Brand Thick-Cut Bacon or similar)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
**Step-by-Step**
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get started!
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each spear.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from the air fryer and serve hot.
**The “Secret Trick”**
Here’s a pro-tip that sets this recipe apart: Pat dry the asparagus with a paper towel before wrapping it in bacon. This ensures that the asparagus cooks evenly and prevents steam buildup, which can lead to soggy or undercooked spears.
**FAQs**
Q: Can I use regular bacon instead of lean bacon?
A: While you can use regular bacon, keep in mind that it will increase the fat content of your snack.
Q: How do I store leftover air-fried asparagus?
A: Let it cool completely and then refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Q: Can I make this recipe in bulk?
A: Yes! Simply multiply the ingredients based on your needs, but keep in mind that you may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
There you have it – a simple yet impressive recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. With its perfect blend of textures and flavors, Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is the ultimate snack for any occasion. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the magic of air frying for yourself!
