Add something new to the menu, or encourage Healthy and Tasty Meals by sharing these recipes with your customers!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. fresh asparagus (about 16-20 stalks)
- 8-10 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus and trim the woody ends. Pat the spears dry with paper towels.
- Season: Place the asparagus on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly.
- Wrap with Bacon: Cut the bacon strips in half lengthwise to get long, thin strips. Wrap a strip of bacon around each asparagus spear in a spiral. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed.
- Bake: Arrange the bacon-wrapped asparagus on the baking sheet, making sure they are not touching. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp to your liking.
- Optional Garnish: If desired, once baked, drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese while still hot.
- Serve: Allow cooling for a few minutes before serving. These make a perfect appetizer for any gathering or can be served as a side with your main course.
Tips:
If the bacon is cooking too quickly compared to the asparagus, you can par-cook the asparagus by blanching them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before wrapping them in bacon.
For an added touch of sweetness, you can sprinkle a little brown sugar on the bacon before wrapping.
This simple yet sophisticated appetizer brings together the earthiness of asparagus with the savory, salty crunch of bacon, enhanced by the subtle flavors of garlic and optional tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. Enjoy your culinary creation!
