Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Ingrédients

• 8 slices bacon (avoid thick cut)
• 2 pounds asparagus (about 48 spears)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (optional)

Préparation

1. 1

   Pre-heat the Oven - Adjust the oven rack to the center position and the temperature to 400°F (204°C).

2. 2

   Par-Cook the Bacon - Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Evenly place the strips on the rack. Roast until the pieces begin to shrink and turn red, about 7 to 8 minutes. They should be flexible, not crispy. Allow them to cool until ready to handle.

3. 3

   Prepare the Asparagus - Wash and thoroughly dry. Trim off the tough fibrous ends to yield about 7-inch long spears. Evenly coat with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

4. 4

   Wrap the Asparagus - Divide the seasoned asparagus into 8 even-sized bundles. Starting from the tips, tightly wrap one slice of par-cooked bacon around each bundle, slightly overlapping in a downward spiral. Secure it with a toothpick.

5. 5

   Glaze - Place the wrapped bundles on the wire rack used to cook the bacon. Brush the bundles with maple syrup if using. Lightly season with salt and pepper.

6. 6

   Roast - Cook until the bacon browns and crisps, and asparagus is tender, about 13 to 15 minutes.

7. 7

   To Serve - Remove the toothpicks and serve warm.