Roasted Asparagus Bundles and Bacon

Roasted Asparagus Bundles and Bacon Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Roasted Asparagus Bundles and Bacon is a delicious and savory dish that combines the earthy flavor of asparagus with the smoky richness of bacon. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or as a side dish for a weeknight dinner.

History

The combination of asparagus and bacon has been a popular dish for centuries, with variations found in many different cuisines around the world. The roasting method used in this recipe helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the asparagus while adding a crispy texture to the bacon.

Ingredients

32 asparagus spears
4 oz (113 g) package of sliced pancetta or regular bacon
black pepper to taste
parsley (optional)

How to prepare

Place a baking sheet with sides on the bottom rack of the oven.
Preheat the oven to 450° F.
Trim the asparagus spears to 6-inch lengths.
Wrap half a slice of pancetta around the middle of 2 asparagus spears for each bundle.
Once all 16 bundles are assembled, carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven.
Arrange the bundles on the baking sheet and roast for 5 minutes.
Flip the bundles over and continue roasting for another 5 minutes, or until the pancetta is crisp and the asparagus is tender.
To serve, transfer the bundles to a plate and sprinkle with pepper and parsley, if desired. Serve warm on its own or with other vegetables.

Variations

Substitute prosciutto for the bacon for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to trim the asparagus spears to ensure they cook evenly.

- Wrapping the bacon around the asparagus helps to infuse the dish with flavor and keeps the spears moist during roasting.

- Be sure to flip the bundles halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted Asparagus Bundles and Bacon can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak, or as a main course with a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the asparagus bundles in the oven helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the asparagus and crisp up the bacon.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have pancetta, you can use regular bacon or prosciutto instead.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the asparagus bundles ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to roast.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the roasted asparagus bundles on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Roasted Asparagus Bundles and Bacon pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Roasted Asparagus Bundles and Bacon contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Roasted Asparagus Bundles and Bacon contains approximately 4 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Roasted Asparagus Bundles and Bacon contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Roasted Asparagus Bundles and Bacon contains approximately 6 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Asparagus is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and potassium. Bacon adds additional flavor and protein to the dish.

Alergens

This recipe contains pork (bacon) and may not be suitable for those with pork allergies.

Summary

Roasted Asparagus Bundles and Bacon is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and vitamins. It is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of asparagus and bacon in one dish.

Summary

Roasted Asparagus Bundles and Bacon is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory bacon and tender asparagus is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished tending to my garden when a neighbor stopped by with a basket of fresh asparagus from her own garden. She told me she had a new recipe to share with me, one that combined the delicious flavors of asparagus, bacon, and a few other ingredients that would make the perfect side dish for any meal.

I eagerly accepted her offer, and she proceeded to show me how to make roasted asparagus bundles with bacon. As she talked me through the steps, I could tell that this recipe was going to be a favorite in my household for years to come.

The first step was to trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears and then blanch them in boiling water for just a few minutes. This would help them retain their vibrant green color and tender texture when roasted in the oven.

Next, we wrapped each bundle of asparagus in a slice of crispy bacon, securing it with a toothpick to keep everything in place. The bacon added a smoky, savory flavor that complemented the earthy taste of the asparagus perfectly.

After the bundles were assembled, we drizzled them with a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of garlic and salt. This would create a delicious glaze as the bundles roasted in the oven, infusing each bite with rich, tangy flavor.

As we placed the bundles on a baking sheet and slid them into the oven, I couldn't help but anticipate the delicious aroma that would soon fill my kitchen. The sizzle of the bacon as it cooked, the sweet scent of the balsamic vinegar, and the earthy aroma of the asparagus all mingled together to create a mouthwatering symphony of flavors.

After just a short time in the oven, the bundles emerged golden and caramelized, the bacon crispy and the asparagus tender. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of our labor.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a culinary paradise. The smoky bacon paired perfectly with the sweet, tangy glaze, and the asparagus was cooked to perfection – tender yet still slightly crisp. Each bite was a burst of flavor, a perfect harmony of savory and sweet that left me craving more.

From that day on, roasted asparagus bundles with bacon became a staple in my kitchen. I shared the recipe with friends and family, each one falling in love with the dish just as I had. It became a go-to side dish for holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, and casual weeknight meals alike.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touches here and there. Sometimes I'll sprinkle the bundles with a bit of Parmesan cheese before serving, or drizzle them with a squeeze of lemon for a bright, citrusy kick.

But no matter how I choose to prepare them, the memory of that first time making roasted asparagus bundles with bacon will always hold a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the joy of discovering a new recipe, of sharing it with loved ones, and of the simple pleasures that come from cooking and sharing a delicious meal.

So the next time you find yourself with a basket of fresh asparagus and a craving for something savory and delicious, give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Just remember to savor each bite, and enjoy the memories that come with each delicious mouthful.