Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! If you’ve been looking for a dish that brings together that smoky flavor of crispy bacon and the fresh crunch of asparagus, you’re in for a delightful ride. Let’s dive into my absolute favorite, **Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles**!
This recipe holds special memories for me. I remember the first time I made it for a gathering; my friends were convinced I had toiled over a hot stove for hours. Little did they know, it was as simple as wrapping some vegetables in bacon and tossing them in the oven! It’s perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a chic dinner party or just a cozy night in. Plus, who doesn’t love bacon?
### What’s in Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles?
So let’s break down what you’ll need for this delightfully simple yet impressive dish!
Asparagus: This vibrant green vegetable is the star of the show! Choose fresh, firm asparagus that’s a beautiful green; it’ll add both flavor and a pop of color to your plate.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon, if you can find it, makes all the difference. The fat adds a savory richness that balances perfectly with the asparagus.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this cheesy goodness brings a nutty flavor that just elevates the whole dish. Plus, you can’t ever go wrong with extra cheese on top!
Olive Oil: Just a drizzle helps to coat the asparagus and keeps it from drying out in the oven. It makes all the ingredients cling together beautifully.
Garlic Powder & Black Pepper: These add just the right kick to the asparagus, enhancing its natural flavors without overwhelming it.
Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before digging in! It brightens up the dish and truly ties all the flavors together.
### Is Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles Good for You?
Now let’s chat about health! Believe it or not, this dish has some health benefits.
Asparagus: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, asparagus is also a great source of fiber and antioxidants. It’s a win-win when you’re trying to eat healthier.
Bacon: While bacon is a bit high in fat and sodium, it’s all about moderation! Using thick-cut bacon gives you a meatier bite and you eat less of it than you might imagine.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds some protein and calcium, which are great for bone health. Just remember to not go overboard when sprinkling!
While this may not be the choice for a strict health regime, enjoying some indulgent bacon with your veggies is sometimes just what we need for a balanced approach to eating.
### Ingredients List
– 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
– 8 to 10 slices of bacon (thick-cut preferred)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or as an appetizer at your next gathering!
### How to Make Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles?
Now let’s get to the fun part – making these bundles! Trust me, it’s a breeze.
1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). I love that crispy sound when the bacon meets the hot oven!
2. In a large bowl, toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper until they are evenly coated. Honestly, smelling the garlic already makes me salivate.
3. Grab a slice of bacon and wrap it around a bundle of 3-4 asparagus spears, starting from the bottom and moving upwards. Make sure the bacon overlaps slightly with each rotation – this ensures crispy, delicious goodness all around. Keep wrapping till all your asparagus are well-dressed!
4. Arrange your bacon-wrapped beauties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a bit of space to breathe.
5. Pop them into the preheated oven and let them roast for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the bacon is crispy, and the asparagus is tender. Cue the applause!
6. Once out of the oven, sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese while they’re still hot. A little extra never hurt anyone, right?
7. Serve them warm, alongside lemon wedges to squeeze over the top for that extra zing.
### Bacon-wrapped Bliss: Extra Tips and Serving Suggestions!
So, if you want to take these bundles to the next level, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for a sweet-tart finish. Moreover, feel free to experiment with spices! A pinch of cayenne could add some kick, and a dash of Italian seasoning could bring even more flavor!
If you’re throwing them on the grill instead, the smoky flavor from the grill will amp up the taste even more – just cook them over indirect heat to prevent burning!
I can’t wait for you to try these Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles! I promise they will be a hit, and they just might find a permanent spot on your dinner table. When you make them, let me know how they turn out. Happy cooking!
