Introduction
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a delightful appetizer that perfectly combines the savory flavor of bacon with the fresh crunch of asparagus. This simple yet delicious dish is ideal for parties, gatherings, or as a side for a special dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can create an impressive and tasty treat that everyone will enjoy.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
12 medium-thick asparagus spears
6 slices thin-sliced pepper bacon, halved
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
18-20 minutes
Total Time
28-30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Enjoy this irresistible bacon-wrapped asparagus as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a flavorful side dish, accompanied by a zesty Dijon mustard for dipping. It’s a guaranteed hit at any meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray both sides of the rack with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus
Trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears to ensure they are of equal length for even cooking. If the asparagus has tough outer skin, peel the spears starting halfway down to the end for a more tender bite.
Step 3: Wrap the Asparagus
Take half a slice of pepper bacon and tightly wrap it around each asparagus spear. Ensure the bacon is secured well to avoid unraveling during cooking. Place the wrapped asparagus on the prepared wire rack.
Step 4: Bake the Asparagus
Bake the bacon-wrapped asparagus in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to begin cooking the bacon and asparagus.
Step 5: Rotate and Continue Baking
After 10 minutes, carefully rotate the pan and flip the bacon-wrapped spears over. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired crispiness. If the bacon needs extra crisping, set the oven to broil and broil for 1 minute while watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once done, transfer the asparagus to a cooling rack and let them cool slightly. Serve with Dijon mustard on the side as a delicious dipping sauce.
Notes
Note 1: Bacon Variations
You may use different types of bacon, such as turkey bacon or pancetta, depending on your taste preference, but cooking times may vary slightly.
Note 2: Asparagus Size
Be mindful of the thickness of the asparagus spears, as thinner spears may require less baking time while thicker ones may need more.
Note 3: Dipping Sauce Options
Feel free to serve with other dipping sauces like ranch dressing or balsamic glaze if you want to explore different flavors alongside the Dijon mustard.
Cook techniques
Trimming Asparagus
Trim the tough ends off asparagus spears to ensure they are tender and easy to eat. This enhances the overall texture and flavor of the dish.
Peeled Asparagus
If the asparagus has tough outer skin, peeling the spears starting halfway down can improve the eating experience. This step is optional but recommended for a more delicate bite.
Bacon Wrapping
Wrap each asparagus spear tightly with half a slice of bacon. This helps to infuse the asparagus with the rich flavor of bacon while ensuring it holds its shape during cooking.
Using a Wire Rack
Using a wire rack on a baking sheet allows hot air to circulate around the asparagus, resulting in evenly cooked and crispy bacon without excess grease.
Rotating and Flipping
Halfway through baking, rotating the pan and flipping the bacon-wrapped spears ensures even cooking and crispiness on both sides, enhancing the texture.
Broiling for Crispiness
If the bacon is not crisp enough after baking, broiling for a minute can help achieve the desired level of crispiness. Always watch closely to prevent burning.
FAQ
Can I use different types of bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon or any other variety, but cooking times may vary as different bacons have different fat content.
What can I serve with the bacon-wrapped asparagus?
These can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack alongside dips like ranch, aioli, or cheese sauce.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the asparagus spears wrapped in bacon before baking. Just store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
How do I know when the asparagus is cooked properly?
The asparagus should be tender with a slight bite, and the bacon should be crispy. You can test by piercing with a fork; it should go through with some resistance.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispness.
Conclusion
Bacon-wrapped asparagus with Dijon mustard is a delightful combination that enhances the natural flavors of the asparagus while adding a savory crunch from the bacon. This dish is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack, allowing the rich, smoky notes of the bacon to harmonize beautifully with the fresh, earthy taste of the asparagus. Serve it warm for the best experience!
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