Asparagus with Hot Bacon Dressing

Asparagus with Hot Bacon Dressing Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful Dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Asparagus with Hot Bacon Dressing is a classic dish that combines the fresh, green taste of asparagus with the rich, savory flavor of bacon. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the combination of vegetables with a hint of meaty indulgence. The hot bacon dressing, made with vinegar, onion, and a touch of sweetness, perfectly complements the tender asparagus, making it a delightful side dish or a light main course.

History

The origins of Asparagus with Hot Bacon Dressing can be traced back to German cuisine, where warm bacon dressings are commonly used to dress various vegetables and salads. This particular combination of asparagus and bacon dressing likely evolved in the United States, where both ingredients are widely available and enjoyed. Over time, it has become a beloved recipe in many households, especially during the spring season when asparagus is at its peak.

Ingredients

2 slices of bacon, finely diced
0.25 cup vinegar
0.25 tbsp salt
1 can (14-0.5 oz or 14 g) of asparagus, heated
0.5 medium onion, finely chopped
0.25 cup water
sugar substitute equivalent to 2 tsp of sugar

How to prepare

In a skillet, brown the bacon until crisp. Add the onion and cook until tender; drain the fat. Add vinegar, water, and salt; bring to a boil. Remove from heat and add the sugar substitute. Pour the dressing over the hot asparagus and serve.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use a small amount of smoked paprika for flavor. You can also add other vegetables to the dressing, such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, for added color and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, use fresh asparagus when possible. If using canned asparagus, be sure to drain it well to avoid a watery dressing. When cooking the bacon, aim for a balance between crispy and tender to add both texture and flavor to the dish. If the dressing is too tart, adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more sugar substitute to taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a side with a variety of main courses, such as grilled meats, poultry, or fish. It also pairs well with other spring vegetables and can be a part of a larger vegetable platter. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a portion of whole grains like quinoa or brown rice.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is rendering the bacon to release its fat and flavor, which then forms the base of the dressing. Gently sautéing the onion in the bacon fat adds depth of flavor to the dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh asparagus is not available, green beans make a good substitute. Apple cider vinegar can be used in place of regular vinegar for a slightly sweeter dressing. For a sugar-free version, use a sugar substitute of your choice.

Make Ahead Tips

The bacon dressing can be prepared ahead of time and reheated just before serving. If using fresh asparagus, blanch it in advance and then reheat it briefly in the dressing to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the asparagus on a platter with the hot bacon dressing drizzled over the top. Garnish with additional chopped bacon or fresh herbs such as parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs beautifully with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling. The acidity of the wine complements the tanginess of the dressing and the richness of the bacon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if the dressing has thickened.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Asparagus with Hot Bacon Dressing contains approximately 100-150 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie side dish. The exact calorie count will depend on the specific ingredients used, particularly the type of bacon and the amount of sugar substitute.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the onions and the small amount of sugar substitute used in the dressing. The total carbohydrate content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used but is generally around 5-10 grams per serving.

Fats

The majority of the fat in this recipe comes from the bacon. Using two slices of bacon for the entire dish keeps the fat content moderate. The total fat content is approximately 10-15 grams per serving, with a significant portion being saturated fat from the bacon. To reduce the fat content, consider using turkey bacon or a leaner cut of pork bacon.

Proteins

Asparagus with Hot Bacon Dressing provides a modest amount of protein, primarily from the bacon. Each serving contains about 5-7 grams of protein. For a higher protein meal, consider serving this dish alongside a lean protein source such as grilled chicken or fish.

Vitamins and minerals

Asparagus is a nutritious vegetable that is high in several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, folate, vitamin C, and iron. The bacon adds some additional minerals, such as zinc and phosphorus. Overall, this dish contributes to a healthy intake of essential nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains no major allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten. However, those with sensitivities to pork or any other specific ingredients used in the recipe should exercise caution.

Summary

Asparagus with Hot Bacon Dressing is a flavorful, nutritious dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories while providing a good source of vitamins and minerals. It contains moderate amounts of fat and protein, making it a balanced addition to any meal.

Summary

Asparagus with Hot Bacon Dressing is a versatile, flavorful dish that combines the best of spring vegetables with the savory taste of bacon. It is relatively easy to prepare and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, it is sure to be a delightful addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still picture the first time I came across this recipe for Asparagus with Hot Bacon Dressing. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret's farmhouse. Margaret was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and that day was no exception. As I sat at her kitchen table, savoring every bite of the asparagus dish she had served, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Margaret noticed my enthusiasm and offered to teach me her secret recipe. She explained that the key to the dish was the hot bacon dressing, which added a unique and savory flavor to the asparagus. Margaret shared with me that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

I was thrilled to learn the recipe from Margaret, and she patiently guided me through each step. She showed me how to cook the asparagus until it was tender but still slightly crisp, and how to make the hot bacon dressing that would perfectly complement the vegetable. As we cooked together, Margaret shared stories of her grandmother and the special moments they had shared in the kitchen.

After several hours of cooking and chatting, the dish was finally ready. I eagerly took my first bite of the asparagus with hot bacon dressing, and it was even more delicious than I remembered. The flavors of the asparagus and bacon combined perfectly, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying.

Over the years, I have made the recipe for Asparagus with Hot Bacon Dressing many times, always thinking fondly of Margaret and the time we spent together in her farmhouse kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition just as Margaret had done with me.

As I reflect on the many recipes I have collected over the years, this one holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to pass down traditions from one generation to the next.

I am grateful for the time I spent with Margaret, learning how to make this delicious dish. It is a reminder of the importance of preserving family recipes and the stories that accompany them. And whenever I make the recipe for Asparagus with Hot Bacon Dressing, I am transported back to that warm summer day in Margaret's farmhouse, surrounded by love, laughter, and good food.