Ultimate Recipe for Asparagus Wrapped in Bacon: A Delicious Appetizer for Every Occasion
#### Recipe for Asparagus Wrapped in BaconAsparagus wrapped in bacon is a delightful combination that elevates the humble vegetable to new heights. This dis……
#### Recipe for Asparagus Wrapped in Bacon
Asparagus wrapped in bacon is a delightful combination that elevates the humble vegetable to new heights. This dish is perfect for gatherings, parties, or even a simple family dinner. The crispy, salty bacon complements the tender, slightly sweet asparagus, creating a flavor profile that is hard to resist.
#### Ingredients
To make this delectable dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- Fresh asparagus spears (about 1 pound)
- Bacon strips (about 10-15, depending on the number of asparagus spears)
- Olive oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
#### Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the bacon will become perfectly crispy while the asparagus cooks.
2. **Prepare the Asparagus**: Rinse the asparagus under cold water and trim the tough ends. You can do this by bending the asparagus gently until it snaps; it will naturally break at the right point.
3. **Wrap with Bacon**: Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each asparagus spear, starting at the bottom and spiraling up to the tip. Make sure to cover as much of the asparagus as possible for maximum flavor. If the bacon is too long, you can cut it in half.
4. **Season**: Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil if desired, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for added flavor.
5. **Bake**: Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the bacon to ensure it doesn’t burn. You want it to be crispy but not overly charred.
6. **Serve**: Once cooked, remove the asparagus from the oven and let it cool for a minute. You can garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor before serving.
#### Tips for Perfect Asparagus Wrapped in Bacon
- **Choosing Asparagus**: Look for firm, bright green asparagus with tightly closed tips. Thin spears will cook faster and become tender, while thicker ones will have a meatier bite.
- **Bacon Choices**: You can experiment with different types of bacon, such as thick-cut or even turkey bacon for a lighter version. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of bacon used.
- **Add Flavor**: For a twist, consider adding a slice of cheese or a sprinkle of herbs like rosemary or thyme before wrapping the bacon around the asparagus.
- **Grill Option**: If you prefer grilling, you can cook the asparagus wrapped in bacon on a grill over medium heat. Just make sure to turn them regularly to ensure even cooking.
#### Conclusion
The recipe for asparagus wrapped in bacon is not only simple but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a casual get-together, or simply want to enjoy a tasty snack, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of flavors and textures is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste. So gather your ingredients and give this delicious recipe a try!