This Whole30 Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is a tasty and easy side dish! Crunchy asparagus bundles dressed in crispy bacon will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Honestly, who can resist the delicious combo of veggies and bacon? It’s a match made in heaven! I love serving these at dinner parties; they always get applause! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for this recipe. Look for vibrant green spears that are firm and straight. If you can’t find asparagus, green beans or Brussels sprouts make good substitutes, though cooking times may vary.
Bacon: Use Whole30-compliant bacon that’s sugar-free and nitrate-free. If you prefer turkey bacon for fewer calories, it can work, but keep in mind it won’t be as crispy and flavorful.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness. You can replace it with avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point and works well for roasting.
Garlic Powder/Smoked Paprika: These are optional, but they add fantastic flavor. If you don’t have them, try onion powder or a dash of cayenne for some heat.
Why Is Asparagus Prep So Important?
Preparing the asparagus correctly is vital to the dish’s success. Start by snapping off the woody ends; they can be tough and unpleasant to eat. Rinsing and patting them dry also helps the bacon adhere better during cooking.
- Snap off the ends where the spear naturally breaks to remove the tough part.
- Ensure the asparagus is dry to allow the bacon to crisp nicely in the oven.
How Do You Get the Bacon Extra Crispy?
Achieving crispy bacon is key to enjoying this dish! Wrapping the bacon tightly around the spears helps, but you’ll also want to ensure two things:
- Bake in a preheated oven so the bacon renders its fat effectively.
- Check doneness around 20 minutes, and if it’s not crispy yet, leave it in for a few extra minutes. The key is to let it bubble and crisp!
By following these tips, you’ll get tender asparagus wrapped in deliciously crispy bacon every time!
Whole30 Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 20 spears), trimmed
For the Bacon:
- 10 slices Whole30-compliant bacon (sugar-free, nitrate-free)
For Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- Optional: Garlic powder or smoked paprika, for extra flavor
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep plus 20-25 minutes of cooking time, making it ready in under an hour! It’s perfect for a quick and tasty appetizer or side dish that fits your Whole30 plan.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To make cleanup a breeze, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Take your fresh asparagus and rinse it under cool water. Trim off the tough woody ends by snapping them off—this helps ensure you only eat the tender parts. Once you’re done, pat the asparagus dry with a towel to remove excess moisture.
3. Bundle the Asparagus:
Group the asparagus into bundles of 3-4 spears. The number you choose may depend on the thickness of the asparagus. Each bundle will be wrapped in bacon, so make sure they are even and manageable!
4. Wrap with Bacon:
Taking one slice of bacon, wrap it tightly around each asparagus bundle, starting just above the bottom and spiraling upward until the bundle is covered. You want the bacon to cling well to the asparagus to prevent it from unwrapping during baking.
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place each bacon-wrapped bundle seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. This helps keep the bacon in place during baking and promotes even cooking.
6. Season Your Bundles:
Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over the wrapped bundles for extra richness. Then, season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and your choice of optional seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika for added flavor.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for crispy bacon and tender asparagus that still has a little firmness to it.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the bundles from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Just before you serve, sprinkle some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme on top for a touch of color and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
These warm, savory bundles are ready to be enjoyed as a Whole30-compliant appetizer or side dish. They offer a delicious combination of crispy bacon and fresh asparagus that you and your guests will love!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh asparagus for this recipe, but if you’re using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture. Frozen asparagus tends to be softer, so adjust your cooking time accordingly, as it may require less time in the oven.
What If I Can’t Find Whole30-Compliant Bacon?
If Whole30-compliant bacon is hard to find, look for any sugar-free, nitrate-free bacon options. You could also use prosciutto as a substitute, but keep in mind it might not get as crispy. Adjust any cooking times as necessary.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in a hot oven for a few minutes to crisp up the bacon again or microwave them briefly, though this may result in a slightly chewy texture.
Can I Add Other Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Other great options include lemon zest, Italian seasoning, or even a bit of chili powder for a spicy kick. Tailor the flavors to your preference while keeping them Whole30-compliant!
