Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Spears: A Sumptuous Delight
Bacon-wrapped asparagus spears are a mouthwatering choice for an appetizer or side dish. This recipe combines the earthy crunch of asparagus with the savoury richness of bacon, creating a delightful explosion of flavours that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing party dish or a special treat for your family dinner, this recipe is bound to be a winner.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of fresh asparagus spears (about 20 spears)
– 10 strips of streaky bacon
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Asparagus:
– Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas mark 6) and lining a baking tray with parchment paper.
– Wash the asparagus spears under cold running water and trim off the tough ends.
– In a shallow dish, toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2. Wrapping the Asparagus:
– Take one strip of bacon and starting from the bottom end of the asparagus spear, wrap it around the asparagus in a spiral fashion, covering as much of the spear as possible.
– Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking tray and repeat with the remaining spears.
3. Roasting the Asparagus:
– Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and roast the bacon-wrapped asparagus for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
4. Serving Suggestions:
– Remove the bacon-wrapped asparagus spears from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
– You can serve them as they are for a simple and delicious appetizer, or pair them with a dipping sauce of your choice for added flair. A hollandaise or aioli dip works wonders with this dish.
5. Tips and Variations:
– For a crispy touch, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the bacon-wrapped asparagus spears before roasting them.
– If you prefer a smokier flavour, you can use smoked streaky bacon instead of regular bacon.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a burst of extra flavour.
Enjoying Your Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Spears:
Bacon-wrapped asparagus spears are best served fresh from the oven when the bacon is still crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these delectable treats are bound to be a hit with everyone at the table. So, next time you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dish to serve, look no further than this irresistible recipe for bacon-wrapped asparagus spears.