Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Try this bacon-wrapped asparagus brushed with maple syrup and oven-roasted until crisp and tender for a delicious side dish.

📝 Ingredients

• 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)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Pre-heat the Oven - Adjust the oven rack to the center position and the temperature to 400°F (204°C).
2. 2Par-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. 3Prepare 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. 4Wrap 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. 5Glaze - 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. 6Roast - Cook until the bacon browns and crisps, and asparagus is tender, about 13 to 15 minutes.
7. 7To Serve - Remove the toothpicks and serve warm.