Indulge in a delightful culinary adventure with our Fried Asparagus with Bacon recipe—a perfect harmony of crispy asparagus spears wrapped in savory bacon. This dish combines the earthy flavors of fresh asparagus with the smoky richness of bacon, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether served as a side dish or a flavorful appetizer, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, let’s dive into the kitchen and create a dish that celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients and bold flavors!
Ingredients:
- Meat:
- 3 slices Bacon
- Produce:
- 1 lb Asparagus, fresh
- 1 Shallot, medium
- Baking & Spices:
- Salt and ground black pepper
- Dairy:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Butter
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash the asparagus spears and trim off the tough ends.
- Peel and thinly slice the shallot.
- Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise.
- Wrap Asparagus with Bacon:
- Take one bacon slice and wrap it tightly around an asparagus spear, starting from the bottom and spiraling upwards.
- Repeat with the remaining bacon and asparagus spears.
- Cook the Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the bacon-wrapped asparagus to the skillet in a single layer, along with the sliced shallots.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fry Until Crispy:
- Cook the bacon-wrapped asparagus for 5-7 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, and the asparagus is tender-crisp, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Serve Hot:
- Once cooked, transfer the fried asparagus to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese while still hot.
- Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish or appetizer.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Bacon Alternatives: Feel free to use turkey bacon or prosciutto instead of traditional bacon for a lighter or different flavor profile.
- Seasoning Options: Experiment with different seasonings such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes to customize the flavor of the dish.
- Cheese Varieties: Swap Parmesan cheese with crumbled feta, shredded cheddar, or grated Romano cheese for a unique twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe? A: While fresh asparagus is recommended for optimal flavor and texture, you can use frozen asparagus if fresh is unavailable. However, be sure to thaw and pat dry the frozen asparagus before wrapping it with bacon.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While fried asparagus is best served fresh for optimal crispiness, you can partially prepare the dish in advance by wrapping the asparagus with bacon and refrigerating it until ready to cook. Finish cooking just before serving for the best results.
Q: How can I prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking? A: To keep the bacon securely wrapped around the asparagus spears, you can secure the ends with toothpicks before frying. Be sure to remove the toothpicks before serving.
Q: Can I bake the bacon-wrapped asparagus instead of frying it? A: Yes, you can bake the bacon-wrapped asparagus in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Use full-fat bacon and butter to keep the dish keto-friendly.
- Skip the shallots or use them sparingly, as they contain natural sugars.
- Serve the fried asparagus with a keto-friendly dipping sauce such as aioli or ranch dressing.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version substitutions and further reduce the carb content by using leaner bacon or turkey bacon.
- Limit the amount of Parmesan cheese or omit it entirely for a lower-carb option.
- Serve the dish with a side of mixed greens or a low-carb salad for a complete meal.
Elevate your dining experience with our Fried Asparagus with Bacon—a delightful fusion of crisp-tender asparagus wrapped in savory bacon, seasoned to perfection with shallots and Parmesan cheese. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a standalone appetizer, this recipe offers a tantalizing combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. So, gather your ingredients and savor the irresistible charm of this simple yet satisfying dish—it’s a culinary masterpiece you’ll want to make again and again!
