Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles a Savory Thanksgiving Side Dish

Time and Servings:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 2g

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 6 slices bacon
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
2. Trim the Asparagus:
   • Wash and trim the woody ends of the asparagus stalks.

Assemble the Bundles:

3. Divide into Bundles:
   • Divide the asparagus into 6 small bundles, with 4-5 stalks per bundle depending on their thickness.
4. Wrap with Bacon:
   • Wrap each asparagus bundle with one slice of bacon, overlapping slightly as you wrap to secure the bundle.
   • Use a toothpick to secure the bacon if needed.

Season and Bake:

5. Season the Bundles:
   • Place the bacon-wrapped bundles on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Drizzle each bundle with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper (go easy on the salt, as bacon is salty).
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
   • Flip the bundles halfway through baking for even cooking.

Serve:

7. Serve Warm:
   • Remove the toothpicks, if used, and arrange the bundles on a serving platter.
   • Serve warm as a savory side dish or appetizer.

Tips for Success:

• For extra flavor, sprinkle the bundles with garlic powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes before baking.
• Use thinner asparagus spears for quicker cooking and better wrapping.
• To make ahead, assemble the bundles in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Wine, Cocktail, or Drink Pairing:

• Pair this dish with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a light Pilsner beer, or a festive cranberry mocktail for a perfect holiday match.