Grilled Iowa Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus on the Arteflame

Introduction

Nothing beats the smoky, crispy, and juicy perfection of grilled bacon-wrapped asparagus, especially when cooked over an open flame on the Arteflame grill. Using thick-cut Iowa bacon for extra flavor and wrapping it around fresh, tender asparagus spears creates a mouthwatering dish that is both simple and impressive. With the Arteflame grill's flat cooktop griddle, we achieve even heat distribution that crisps the bacon perfectly while keeping the asparagus tender. Get ready to elevate your grilling game!

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 12 slices thick-cut Iowa bacon
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Toothpicks (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the paper and let the fire build up for about 20 minutes.
4. Once the grill has an even heat across the griddle, start cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the asparagus

1. Rinse the asparagus spears and trim the tough ends.
2. Toss the asparagus with melted butter, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Wrap asparagus with bacon

1. Take 2-3 spears of asparagus and wrap a slice of thick-cut Iowa bacon around them.
2. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary.

Step 4: Grill on the Arteflame cooktop

1. Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles on the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Position them closer to the center for higher heat, moving them outward as they cook.
3. Let the bacon sear until crispy and golden brown, turning occasionally (about 8-10 minutes).
4. When the bacon reaches desired crispness, move them slightly outward to finish cooking without burning.

Step 5: Remove and rest

1. Once the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender, remove from the grill.
2. Let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Use thick-cut Iowa bacon for the best flavor and texture.
• Keep an eye on the bacon to prevent burning—adjust placement on the cooktop as needed.
• For extra crispiness, press down lightly with a spatula while cooking.
• Remove the asparagus from the grill when the bacon is crispy, as it will continue to cook after being taken off the grill.

Variations

1. Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the melted butter before tossing the asparagus.
2. Parmesan Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus right before removing from the grill.
3. Maple Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Brush the bacon with a light layer of maple syrup halfway through grilling for a sweet-savory twist.
4. Garlic Butter Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Mix minced garlic into the melted butter before brushing onto the asparagus.
5. Herb-Infused Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Toss the asparagus with chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic boost.

Best Pairings

• Grilled ribeye steak cooked using the reverse sear method.
• Arteflame grilled potatoes with melted butter and garlic.
• Charred corn on the cob with paprika and butter.
• A refreshing Iowa craft beer or a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc.

Conclusion

Bacon-wrapped asparagus is the perfect side dish or appetizer for any grilling enthusiast. Cooking these on the Arteflame grill brings out the rich, smoky flavors while ensuring perfect texture every time. Whether you're grilling for a family dinner or a backyard party, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. Try out the variations for unique flavors and enjoy grilling to perfection!