This Whole30 Bacon Wrapped Asparagus combines crispy bacon with fresh asparagus for a tasty treat. It’s quick to make and perfect for any meal or snack!
Honestly, who can resist that delicious mix of flavors? I love serving this at gatherings, and everyone always asks for more. It’s a hit every time! 🌟
Making this dish is a breeze! Just wrap the asparagus with bacon, pop it in the oven, and enjoy the great aroma filling your kitchen. Simple and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for this recipe. Choose bright green, firm spears. If you can’t find asparagus, you can use green beans as a substitute, but the texture will be a bit different.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is preferred for its ability to crisp nicely and hold the bundle together. If you want a leaner option, turkey bacon works in a pinch, but beware it may not get as crunchy.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil is a great substitute as it has a similar flavor and high smoke point.
Seasonings: Feel free to customize with other spices you like! Smoked paprika or Italian seasoning can add some extra flavor. If you’re avoiding garlic, you can simply leave it out.
How Do I Get the Bacon Crispy Without Overcooking the Asparagus?
The trick to getting the bacon crispy while keeping the asparagus tender is to bake at a controlled temperature and for the right amount of time. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Use thick-cut bacon, which allows for a crispy texture without burning too quickly.
- Wrap the bacon tightly but not too tightly; this allows the heat to circulate and cook the bacon evenly.
- Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking. If you want an extra crisp, use the broiler for just a minute or two, but watch carefully!
These tips will help you achieve delicious, crispy bacon-wrapped asparagus every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🌱
How to Make Whole30 Bacon Wrapped Asparagus?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 20 spears)
- 10 slices Whole30 compliant bacon (preferably thick-cut)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or your favorite herb (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20–25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious option for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for super easy cleanup later.
2. Get the Asparagus Ready:
Give the asparagus a good wash to remove any dirt. Then, trim off those tough ends at the bottom. Make sure to pat the spears dry so that they don’t steam in the oven.
3. Seasoning the Asparagus:
Now, toss the asparagus in a bowl with the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme (if you’re using it). Make sure each spear is evenly coated with that lovely seasoning.
4. Wrap It Up!
For the fun part, take two asparagus spears and bundle them together. Grab one slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around the middle of the asparagus bundle. This keeps the spears together and adds that yummy bacon flavor!
5. Baking Time:
Place the bacon-wrapped bundles seam side down on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and let them bake for about 20–25 minutes. They’re ready when the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
6. Crisping Up (Optional):
If you like your bacon extra crispy, you can broil the bundles for 1-2 minutes at the end, just keep a close watch so they don’t burn!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, carefully remove the asparagus from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, serve them up and enjoy your delicious Whole30-friendly appetizer or side dish!
This simple yet flavorful dish is sure to be a hit! Happy cooking! 🥓🌱
Can I Use Regular Bacon Instead of Whole30 Compliant Bacon?
While you can use regular bacon, it may not be Whole30 compliant due to added sugars and preservatives. If you’re following Whole30 guidelines, stick to brands that are labeled as compliant to ensure you’re staying within the program’s requirements.
How Do I Know When the Asparagus is Done?
The asparagus is done when it’s tender but still has a slight crunch, and the bacon is crispy. You can test the asparagus by piercing it with a fork; it should slide in easily but not be mushy. Keep an eye on the bacon to ensure it doesn’t burn, especially if using the broiler at the end!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
For optimal freshness, it’s best to prepare and bake this dish right before serving. However, you can prep the asparagus and wrap them in bacon a few hours in advance, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just give them a few extra minutes in the oven since they’ll be colder.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through, to help retain the bacon’s crispiness.