Asparagus often ranks low on the list of favorite vegetables, particularly among children, who may be put off by its unique flavor and somewhat fibrous texture. Convincing young ones to include asparagus in their meals can be a challenge for parents. However, there’s an awesome way to make asparagus not only palatable but also eagerly anticipated at the dinner table. Introducing: Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus with a Spicy Twist! This recipe transforms the humble vegetable into a tasty treat. Wrapped in crispy bacon and seasoned with a blend of Spice Station spices, asparagus becomes a dish that kids and adults alike will truly enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb of asparagus spears (roughly 16-20 spears, depending on size)
- 8-10 slices of thin-cut bacon
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for added heat
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper for lining
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
Instructions
Preheat and Prep:
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius). Rinse the asparagus under cold water and trim off the tough bottoms. Dry the spears thoroughly to help the bacon adhere better.
Season:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them.
Add the asparagus spears to the seasoned oil mixture and gently toss to ensure they are well-coated.
Wrap:
Carefully wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon, starting from the base to just below the tip, slightly overlapping the bacon as you spiral up the spear. Lay the wrapped spears on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch to promote even crisping.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Turning the asparagus halfway through the cooking time will help achieve an even crispness on all sides of the bacon.
Serve:
Once the bacon is crisply cooked and the asparagus feels tender, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Serve these delightful bundles warm, perhaps with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of fresh lemon for an extra pop of flavor.
Additional Tips
Opt for Thin Bacon: Thinner bacon slices are ideal as they wrap more easily and cook through without overcooking the asparagus.
Spacing is Key: Keep space between each bacon-wrapped spear on your baking sheet. This exposure to heat helps the bacon crisp beautifully.
Customize Your Spice Mix: The spices listed here are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, or even a dash of cayenne for more heat. We have a large variety of herbs and spices at our Spice Station Shop!
Cheesy Delight: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the asparagus during the last few minutes of baking for a melty, delicious finish.
This bacon-wrapped asparagus recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that are sure to delight anyone who tries it. Enjoy crafting this easy yet impressive dish that’s bound to become a new favorite!
