Asparagus Wrapped in Bacon: A Delightful Oven-Roasted Treat
How to Cook Asparagus Wrapped in Bacon in the Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide
Asparagus wrapped in bacon is a classic dish that is both delicious and easy to make. It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dinner. The salty bacon pairs perfectly with the tender asparagus, and the cooking process in the oven ensures that both are cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 pound bacon, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the asparagus: Wash the asparagus and trim the woody ends. Cut the asparagus spears into 3-inch pieces.
Wrap the asparagus in bacon: Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around an asparagus spear, starting at the bottom and working your way up. Secure the bacon with a toothpick. Repeat this process until all of the asparagus spears are wrapped in bacon.
Place the asparagus on a baking sheet: Arrange the asparagus spears in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bake the asparagus: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is browned and crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the asparagus cool slightly before serving.
Tips:
- For a more flavorful dish, use thick-cut bacon.
- To add a cheesy touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on the asparagus before baking.
- If you don't have toothpicks, you can use small skewers to secure the bacon.
- For a healthier version, use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
- You can also cook asparagus wrapped in bacon on the grill. Just preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the asparagus for 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked through.
Variations:
- To add a little spice, sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper on the asparagus before wrapping it in bacon.
- For a sweet and savory flavor, drizzle the asparagus with honey or maple syrup before baking.
- You can also add other vegetables to the bacon-wrapped asparagus, such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- For a more elegant presentation, serve the asparagus wrapped in bacon with a dipping sauce, such as hollandaise sauce or ranch dressing.
Serving Suggestions:
- Asparagus wrapped in bacon is a great side dish for any main course, such as grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- It can also be served as an appetizer or snack.
- For a fun and easy party appetizer, cut the asparagus wrapped in bacon into bite-sized pieces and serve them on toothpicks.
Conclusion:
Asparagus wrapped in bacon is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
FAQs:
- What type of bacon should I use?
You can use any type of bacon you like, but thick-cut bacon will give you a more flavorful dish.
- Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. Turkey bacon is a healthier option, and it still has a delicious flavor.
- How long do I need to bake the asparagus?
Bake the asparagus for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is browned and crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Can I cook asparagus wrapped in bacon on the grill?
Yes, you can cook asparagus wrapped in bacon on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the asparagus for 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked through.
- What are some good dipping sauces for asparagus wrapped in bacon?
Some good dipping sauces for asparagus wrapped in bacon include hollandaise sauce, ranch dressing, and honey mustard.
