Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this bacon wrapped asparagus recipe! It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor that makes it an absolute winner at any gathering. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively holiday party, these little bundles of joy always steal the show. I remember one summer barbecue where I made these for the first time. As soon as they came out of the oven, the smell of crispy bacon filled the air, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in! Trust me, the combination of tender asparagus and smoky bacon is just divine. Plus, they’re a versatile side dish that complements a variety of cuisines, from classic American to Mediterranean. You really can’t go wrong with this easy side dish—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of preparing these delightful bacon-wrapped asparagus spears! Don’t worry; it’s super straightforward, and I’ll guide you every step of the way.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your bacon gets nice and crispy while the asparagus cooks perfectly. Trust me, no one likes soggy bacon!
Prepare the Asparagus
Next up, grab your trimmed asparagus and toss them in a large bowl with the olive oil, black pepper, garlic powder, and sea salt. Make sure every spear is well-coated. I like to use my hands for this—just give them a good massage! It’s so satisfying to feel that oil and seasoning evenly spread across each spear.
Wrap the Asparagus
Now comes the fun part—wrapping! Take a slice of bacon and start at the bottom of each asparagus spear, spiraling up to the tip. You want to cover as much of the asparagus as possible without overlapping the bacon too much. This helps it cook evenly and get that crispy goodness. Tuck the end of the bacon underneath the spear to secure it in place.
Baking Process
Place your beautifully wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to space them out a bit. This allows the hot air to circulate, giving you that perfect crispy texture. Bake them for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them—you’ll know they’re done when you can almost smell the bacon goodness wafting through the kitchen!
Serving Suggestions
Once they’re out of the oven, serve these tasty bites hot! They’re fantastic on their own, but you can also sprinkle a little grated parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice on top for an extra flavor kick. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’re in for a real treat!
Nutritional Information
Let’s take a quick glance at the nutritional goodness packed in these delicious bacon-wrapped asparagus spears! Each serving, which is about 2 wrapped asparagus spears, contains:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 9g
Keep in mind that these values may vary based on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of bacon or the exact size of your asparagus. But overall, you’re looking at a tasty side dish that’s not only flavorful but also packs a decent protein punch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
- The combination of crispy bacon and tender asparagus creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion that everyone will love.
- Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a quick side dish that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- This recipe is super versatile; pair it with grilled meats, serve it at holiday gatherings, or enjoy it as a healthy snack!
- It’s a gluten-free option that fits well within many dietary preferences.
- The presentation is stunning, with vibrant green asparagus peeking out from crispy bacon—guaranteed to impress your guests!
- You can easily customize it with different spices or cheese to suit your taste.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail this bacon wrapped asparagus recipe every single time! Here are some expert tips that will take your dish from good to absolutely fantastic.
- Choose the Right Asparagus: Go for firm, bright green asparagus spears. Thinner ones tend to cook faster and have a more tender bite, while thicker ones can provide a satisfying crunch. Just make sure they’re fresh!
- Bacon Matters: I recommend using a good-quality bacon that’s not too thick or too thin. Thick-cut bacon can be delicious, but it may require a little extra baking time to get that crispy texture. If you prefer a smoky flavor, opt for smoked bacon!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Giving each wrapped spear enough space on the baking sheet is crucial for even cooking. If they’re too close together, you might end up with soggy spots instead of crispy goodness!
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your asparagus during the last few minutes of baking. It’s better to pull them out a touch early, as the residual heat will continue to cook them a bit more once they’re out of the oven.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While the basic seasoning is delicious, don’t hesitate to get creative! A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne can add an exciting kick. You can also swap out the garlic powder for fresh minced garlic for a more robust flavor.
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the bacon-wrapped asparagus sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the bacon to set a bit, making it easier to handle and eat.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Consider pairing these with a tangy dipping sauce like a balsamic glaze, ranch, or even a spicy aioli. It elevates the dish even more and adds a fun interactive element to your meal!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with an absolutely scrumptious side dish. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this bacon wrapped asparagus recipe! Here are a few variations that can take your dish to the next level while catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.
- Cheesy Delight: For a creamy twist, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese or crumbled feta on top of the asparagus after wrapping them in bacon. The cheese will melt and add an extra layer of flavor that’s absolutely irresistible!
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even dill into your olive oil before tossing the asparagus. This adds a fragrant touch that elevates the entire dish. Fresh herbs can really brighten things up!
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. It gives the bacon a nice spicy edge that pairs beautifully with the asparagus.
- Maple Glaze: For a sweet and savory combo, drizzle a little maple syrup over the bacon before baking. The syrup caramelizes as it cooks, creating a deliciously sticky and sweet coating that’s simply divine!
- Vegan Option: For a plant-based twist, substitute the bacon with thinly sliced eggplant or zucchini that’s been marinated in soy sauce and smoked paprika. Although it won’t have the same flavor, it’ll give you a satisfying texture and a smoky taste.
- Smoky Flavor: If you like a deeper smoky flavor, try using smoked bacon or even wrapping the asparagus in prosciutto instead. Prosciutto crisps up beautifully and offers a lovely saltiness that pairs perfectly with the asparagus.
- Gluten-Free Dips: For dipping sauces, consider making a gluten-free aioli or a zesty chimichurri to complement the dish. These sauces not only add flavor but also give a fresh contrast to the crispy bacon!
Feel free to mix and match these variations based on what you have in your kitchen or your personal preferences. The beauty of this dish is its versatility—each twist you add will make it feel like a brand new creation every time!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to store those tasty leftovers so you can enjoy them later! After you’ve finished your meal, let any remaining bacon-wrapped asparagus cool completely at room temperature. Once they’ve cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is key to keeping that delicious crispy texture intact. I recommend using the oven for reheating. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover asparagus on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the bacon is crispy again. If you’re in a rush, you can use the microwave, but do be careful—microwaving can make the bacon a bit chewy instead of crispy. If you must, heat them in 30-second intervals and watch closely.
Whether you’re reheating for a quick snack or serving them again at dinner, these little bundles of joy will still taste fantastic! Enjoy every bite!
Leave Your Thoughts
I absolutely love hearing from you, so don’t be shy! Have you tried this bacon wrapped asparagus recipe? I’d love to know how it turned out for you! Did you make any fun variations or tweaks? Share your experiences or your go-to dipping sauces in the comments below. Trust me, your feedback not only warms my heart but also inspires other home cooks to get creative in the kitchen. So let’s chat—what’s your favorite way to enjoy this dish? I can’t wait to hear your stories and tips!
For more information on the health benefits of asparagus, check out this Healthline article.
Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about different types of bacon, you can visit this Spruce Eats guide.
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Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Recipe: 7 Easy Steps to Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple yet flavorful side dish featuring asparagus wrapped in crispy bacon.
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, black pepper, garlic powder, and sea salt.
- Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon, starting at the bottom and spiraling up to the tip.
- Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
- Serve hot as a side dish.
Notes
- For a variation, try adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before baking.
- Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier texture.
- Consider grilling instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 wrapped asparagus spears
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: bacon wrapped asparagus recipe easy side dish
