Indulge in Low Carb Delight with Bacon Wrapped Asparagus: A Flavorful and Satisfying Dish!
Are you searching for a delectable low-carb appetizer or side dish that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than Bacon Wrapped Asparagus! This mouthwatering recipe combines crisp asparagus spears with savory bacon for a perfect marriage of textures and tastes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a delicious way to enjoy your veggies, Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this irresistible dish step by step.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, ends trimmed
- 8-10 slices of bacon (choose a thicker cut for best results)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus spears and trim off the woody ends. If desired, use a vegetable peeler to peel the bottom half of the asparagus spears for a more tender texture.
- Wrap with Bacon: Divide the asparagus spears into bundles of 3-4 spears each. Carefully wrap each bundle with a slice of bacon, starting at one end and spiraling down to the other end. Secure the bacon in place with toothpicks if necessary.
- Season with Olive Oil and Spices: Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For added flavor, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder if desired.
- Bake in the Oven: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp. If necessary, you can broil the bacon-wrapped asparagus for an additional 1-2 minutes to crisp up the bacon even more.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked to perfection, remove the bacon-wrapped asparagus from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Arrange the bundles on a platter and serve them hot as a delightful appetizer or side dish.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Grill Instead of Bake: For a smoky flavor, you can grill the bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles over medium-high heat on a preheated grill. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Add a Dipping Sauce: Serve the bacon-wrapped asparagus with a side of hollandaise sauce, aioli, or balsamic reduction for dipping.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is already keto-friendly, but you can enhance the keto factor by using thick-cut bacon and skipping the optional Parmesan cheese and garlic powder.
- Low Carb Version: To reduce the carb content even further, use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon and omit the optional Parmesan cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make Bacon Wrapped Asparagus ahead of time? A: While Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can partially assemble the bundles in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to wrap them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
Q: Can I use frozen asparagus? A: Fresh asparagus is recommended for this recipe, as frozen asparagus tends to be more watery and may not crisp up as nicely when baked or grilled.
Q: How do I know when the asparagus is done? A: The bacon should be crispy and golden brown, and the asparagus should be tender yet still slightly crisp. You can test the doneness of the asparagus by piercing it with a fork or knife—it should be easy to penetrate but not mushy.
Q: Can I use other seasonings or herbs? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to customize the flavor of your Bacon Wrapped Asparagus. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika would all complement the dish beautifully.
Q: What can I serve with Bacon Wrapped Asparagus? A: Bacon Wrapped Asparagus pairs well with a variety of main dishes, such as grilled chicken, steak, or seafood. It also makes a delicious addition to brunch menus alongside eggs Benedict or frittatas.
In conclusion, Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its irresistible combination of crispy bacon and tender-crisp asparagus, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Whether you’re following a low-carb or keto diet or simply looking for a delicious way to enjoy your veggies, Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is a winner every time. So why wait? Head to the kitchen and whip up a batch of this delectable dish today!