Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is a delicious and savory side dish that brings together the crispness of asparagus with the smoky richness of bacon. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday gatherings. The seasoned asparagus bundles are wrapped in bacon and roasted to perfection, creating a mouthwatering blend of flavors and textures. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a few simple ingredients, you can create this delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Prep Time:

• Total time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 4 (makes 8 bundles)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. asparagus (trimmed): The tender, crisp asparagus spears are the perfect vegetable for this recipe, offering a mild and slightly earthy flavor.
• 8 strips of bacon: The bacon adds a smoky, salty richness to the asparagus, making it irresistible.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps to keep the asparagus tender and infuses them with flavor as they roast.
• 1/8 tsp black crushed pepper: Provides a hint of spice to balance out the richness of the bacon.
• 1/8 tsp garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic flavor to the asparagus.
• 1/8 tsp onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor and complements the garlic and pepper.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking tray by spraying it with nonstick spray. This ensures that the bacon and asparagus won’t stick to the tray during roasting.
2. Wash and trim the asparagus: Begin by washing the asparagus thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Next, trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears by cutting or snapping the tough, fibrous bottom part, which is usually about 1-2 inches. This step ensures that the asparagus is tender and easy to eat once roasted.
3. Season the asparagus: Place the cleaned and trimmed asparagus spears onto a deep baking tray. Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the asparagus, then sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon each of black crushed pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Using your hands, gently toss the asparagus to coat them evenly with the oil and seasonings. This step ensures that each asparagus spear is packed with flavor before it’s wrapped in bacon.
4. Wrap the asparagus in bacon: Divide the seasoned asparagus into 8 equal bundles, which will make for an attractive presentation and even cooking. Take one strip of bacon and carefully wrap it around each bundle of asparagus, starting at one end and spiraling the bacon around until you reach the other end. The bacon will crisp up beautifully in the oven, creating a delicious contrast to the tender asparagus.
5. Bake the asparagus: Once all of the asparagus bundles are wrapped in bacon, arrange them on the prepared baking tray, making sure they are spaced evenly to ensure even cooking. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. After the first 15-20 minutes, flip the asparagus bundles over to ensure the bacon crisps up on all sides. The bacon should be golden brown and crispy by the time the asparagus is tender.
6. Serve and enjoy: Once the bacon-wrapped asparagus is cooked to perfection, remove the tray from the oven and let the bundles rest for a few minutes before serving. The asparagus will be tender, and the bacon will be crispy and flavorful, making this dish a satisfying addition to any meal.

Serving Suggestions:

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, such as grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or even fish. The smoky flavor of the bacon complements the natural sweetness of the asparagus, making it an excellent addition to a holiday spread or a weekend barbecue.

For an elevated presentation, you can garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary before serving. If you prefer a little extra flavor, try drizzling balsamic glaze or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the asparagus bundles just before serving. These additions can enhance the dish’s complexity and bring a bright, tangy element to balance the richness of the bacon.

Whether you’re serving this at a dinner party or enjoying it as a quick and easy side for a weeknight meal, Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to make, visually appealing, and full of flavor, making it a fantastic go-to recipe for any occasion.

Enjoy these crispy, savory bundles of bacon-wrapped asparagus fresh from the oven, and watch them disappear from the table!