Looking for a delightful side dish that perfectly balances savory and crunchy? This crispy bacon-wrapped asparagus is just what you need! It’s simple yet impressive, making it an ideal choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. With just a few ingredients, you can elevate your meal with a touch of elegance and flavor.
Imagine tender asparagus spears wrapped in crispy bacon, creating a mouthwatering combination that complements any main course. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
Captivating Presentation
A beautifully arranged plate of bacon-wrapped asparagus is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant green of the asparagus spears contrasts stunningly with the golden-brown bacon, creating a visual delight. Each spear glistens with a hint of olive oil, emphasizing its freshness and inviting you to take a bite.
Set against a rustic wooden table, the dish exudes warmth and comfort, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. The addition of grated Parmesan cheese offers a touch of elegance, elevating the overall appearance. This simple yet effective presentation showcases the dish’s appeal and makes it a standout choice for gatherings or family dinners.
Flavorful Ingredients
The magic of bacon-wrapped asparagus lies in its straightforward yet impactful ingredients. Fresh asparagus, known for its tender crunch, forms the base of this dish. Each spear is wrapped snugly in crispy bacon, infusing it with a smoky flavor that complements the gentle nuttiness of the asparagus.
Seasoned with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, the asparagus gains an extra layer of taste. The optional Parmesan cheese adds a salty richness that takes the dish to another level. This combination of flavors creates an irresistible offering that appeals to both bacon lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike.
Preparation Process
Preparing bacon-wrapped asparagus is both quick and straightforward. Start by preheating the oven, allowing you to bake the dish to perfection. Rinsing and trimming the asparagus ensures that only the best parts are used, while tossing them in olive oil and seasonings guarantees that each spear is coated evenly.
The wrapping process involves spiraling the bacon around the asparagus, resulting in a visually pleasing presentation. Placing the wrapped spears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper makes cleanup easier and ensures they cook evenly.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking bacon-wrapped asparagus at the right temperature is key to achieving that desired crispiness. Baking at 400°F (200°C) allows the bacon to render its fat gradually, resulting in a crispy exterior while keeping the asparagus tender and juicy.
Monitoring the cooking time, typically around 20-25 minutes, ensures that both the bacon and asparagus reach the perfect level of doneness. This method not only enhances flavor but also retains the vibrant green color of the asparagus, adding to the dish’s appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Serving bacon-wrapped asparagus is where creativity can shine. For a simple yet elegant presentation, arrange the spears on a white plate, allowing the colors to pop. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a finishing touch that enhances both flavor and appearance.
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, making it a versatile side option. Whether served alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a hearty pasta dish, bacon-wrapped asparagus is sure to impress your guests and elevate the dining experience.
Nutrition and Portioning
For those mindful of their diet, bacon-wrapped asparagus offers a delightful balance of flavors without overwhelming calories. Each serving contains about 180 calories, allowing you to enjoy this indulgent dish guilt-free. The combination of bacon and asparagus provides a good source of protein while keeping carbohydrates low.
With 4 servings per recipe, it’s easy to share with family or friends at gatherings. This dish not only satisfies taste buds but also contributes to a balanced meal when paired with other nutritious options.
Delicious Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Recipe
This bacon-wrapped asparagus features fresh asparagus spears enveloped in smoky, crispy bacon, creating a delightful contrast in textures. The flavors of the salty bacon and the slightly nutty asparagus come together beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 8 ounces bacon, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Asparagus: Rinse and trim the tough ends off the asparagus.
- Season the Asparagus: In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each asparagus spear, starting from the bottom and spiraling up to the top. Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 13g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 4g