Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a dish that perfectly balances simplicity and flavor, making it a favorite in my kitchen, especially during the spring and summer months when asparagus is at its peak. I first encountered this recipe during a family barbecue, where my aunt, known for her effortless yet delicious cooking, served these alongside grilled meats. The combination of smoky, crispy bacon and tender, slightly charred asparagus spears was unforgettable, instantly winning over everyone at the table.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For example, if you prefer a bit of sweetness, you can drizzle the bacon-wrapped bundles with a touch of honey or maple syrup before baking. Or, for those who enjoy a bit of spice, a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika on the asparagus can add an extra layer of flavor.
If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. It won’t be as rich, but it will still provide that satisfying combination of flavors. Additionally, this recipe is also adaptable to the grill. Simply wrap the asparagus, secure the bacon with toothpicks, and place the bundles directly on the grill grates. The result is a slightly smoky, perfectly cooked dish that pairs wonderfully with almost any main course.
This bacon-wrapped asparagus is not only a great side dish, but it can also serve as an appetizer at gatherings or a quick snack when you’re in the mood for something savory. With its minimal prep time and the delicious outcome, it’s a recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.
Making Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds of fresh asparagus spears
- 1 teaspoon cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 pound of bacon slices
Directions
- Trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears.
- Drizzle the asparagus with oil, then season evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Gather a few asparagus spears together and wrap them with a slice of bacon.
- Lay the bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles on a baking sheet, ensuring they have space between them.
- Bake in the oven at 400°F for around 22 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Storing Suggestions:
Store any leftover bacon-wrapped asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or heat them briefly in a skillet to restore crispiness.
FAQs:
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a substitute. However, keep in mind that turkey bacon is usually leaner and might not crisp up as much as regular bacon. You may need to cook it for a few extra minutes to achieve the desired texture.
What’s the best way to prevent the bacon from unwrapping during baking?
To prevent the bacon from unraveling, you can secure the ends with a toothpick. Just be sure to remove the toothpicks before serving. Wrapping the bacon tightly also helps it stay in place during cooking.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bacon-wrapped asparagus up to a day in advance. Store the bundles in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, until you’re ready to bake them. Add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking them straight from the fridge.
What if I don’t have fresh asparagus? Can I use frozen?
Frozen asparagus can be used, but it’s best to thaw it first and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. The texture might be softer compared to using fresh asparagus, so keep that in mind when preparing this dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can sprinkle the asparagus with red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper before wrapping them in bacon. Another option is to use a spicy variety of bacon or brush the bacon with a bit of hot sauce before baking.
Is it possible to grill the bacon-wrapped asparagus instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling is a great alternative to baking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the bundles directly on the grates. Turn them occasionally to ensure the bacon cooks evenly, and grill until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh asparagus
- 1 teaspoon of oil
- 1 teaspoon salt or to your preference
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pound bacon strips
Instructions
- Begin by trimming the tough ends from the asparagus spears. Lightly coat the asparagus with oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Take a small bundle of asparagus spears and wrap each with a strip of bacon.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet, leaving some space between each bundle.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake at 400°F for approximately 22 minutes, or until the bacon becomes crispy and the asparagus is tender.
