Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is a delightful combination of savory and crunchy, featuring fresh asparagus spears hugged by crispy bacon, perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Asparagus and Bacon
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon Use thick-cut bacon for better texture and flavor.
- 1 pound asparagus (trimmed to 7-inch long spears)
- Kosher salt to taste Kosher salt For seasoning.
Seasoning Mixture
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup Adds sweetness and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper Plus more for seasoning.
Instructions
Preparation
- Adjust the oven rack to the center position and preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place 5 slices of bacon spaced evenly on the rack. Roast the bacon until it starts to shrink and turns slightly red, about 5 minutes, ensuring it is still flexible.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, maple syrup, garlic salt, and black pepper.
- Remove the bacon from the oven and brush the maple syrup mixture on both sides of the bacon. Roast for an additional 3 minutes.
Wrapping Asparagus
- Let the bacon cool until you can handle it. Divide the asparagus into five equal bundles.
- On a cutting board, wrap one slice of the par-cooked bacon around each bundle of asparagus and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the bundles on the wire rack and generously brush the maple syrup mixture over the bacon-wrapped asparagus.
- Lightly season each bundle with salt and pepper.
Cooking
- Roast the bundles for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and brush additional maple mixture on the bacon.
- Roast for 5 more minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Remove the toothpicks and serve hot.
Notes
To store leftovers, place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Feel free to replace bacon with prosciutto or turkey bacon for a healthier version or add cheese before wrapping.