Mediterranean Bacon Cheddar Wrapped Asparagus

These Mediterranean Bacon Cheddar Wrapped Asparagus bundles have a crispy texture and savory flavor. We prepare these bundles with smoky bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, asparagus spears,  olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and a touch of seasoning to enhance the Mediterranean-inspired taste. These bundles contain around 210 calories and 12 g of protein. We make these bundles in just 30 minutes. These Mediterranean Bacon Cheddar Wrapped Asparagus bundles are good for keto lifestyles, low-carb diets, family dinners, festive gatherings, holiday spreads, game nights, quick appetizers, party platters, easy weeknight sides, and elegant entertaining. We can store leftovers in the refrigerator for almost three days, although they taste best when freshly baked. You can serve these bundles with garlic aioli, creamy ranch dip, lemon herb yogurt sauce, roasted chicken, grilled steak, or fresh Mediterranean salads.

STATS:

• Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
• Calories: 210 kcal
• Diet: Keto
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Portion size: 5 wrapped asparagus spears
• Cooking mode: Oven
• Overall yields: 4
• Level of Difficulty: Easy
• Overall Duration: 30 minutes

TOOLS:

• Sheet
• Baking paper
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs
• Oven
• Small mixing bowl

INGREDIENTS:

• 20 asparagus spears
• ½ tsp paprika
• 10 slices of bacon
• 1 cup cheddar cheese
• Salt
• Olive oil, one tbsp.
• One teaspoon of garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Lemon zest

INGREDIENT NOTES AND THEIR SUBSTITUTIONS:

ASPARAGUS:

• Asparagus is utilized as the main foundation to give a crisp texture and fresh flavor. As another option, we might utilize green beans or zucchini spears.

BACON:

• We use bacon to deliver a savory and crispy layer to these bundles. Alternatively, you can use turkey bacon or beef bacon for a lighter or halal-friendly option.

CHEDDAR CHEESE:

• Utilize cheddar cheese, which will provide a creamy and melted cheesy topping. We can replace it with mozzarella, Gouda, or Parmesan.

OLIVE OIL:

• We have to utilize olive oil to improve the flavor and help in even roasting. Utilize avocado oil or butter as further options.

PAPRIKA:

• You can use the paprika to provide a smoky depth and mild warmth. Instead, we can use chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicier taste.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Warm the empty oven to 200°Celcius and cover a sheet with a baking paper.
2. Asparagus spears should be cleaned and trimmed by breaking off any tough ends.
3. Stir the paprika, pepper, olive oil, garlic powder, and salt to make a glaze.
4. Gently drizzle the glaze on the asparagus.
5. Tightly cover 2 asparagus spears with 1/2 slice of bacon
6. Put the wrapped spears on a sheet and add some cheddar shreds as a garnish.
7. Bake till the cheese becomes golden and melted, and the bacon becomes crispy for about eighteen minutes.
8. Broil for about two minutes for additional crisp texture.
9. Serve these bundles with lemon zest.

TIPS:

• Before wrapping, already bake it for about five minutes to get crisp bacon.
• We utilize a thicker asparagus to avoid overcooking.
• Lastly, include the cheese if you want a slightly browned texture.
• Avoid crowding the sheet too much for a uniform and crispy texture.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

MAIN PAIRINGS:

• Garlic butter shrimp skewers
• Roasted lamb chops
• Baked Mediterranean salmon
• Herb-marinated turkey cutlets

FRESH AND LIGHT SIDES:

• Greek salad
• Cucumber yogurt tzatziki bowl
• Quinoa tabbouleh
• Hummus
• Tomato basil avocado salad

FOOD PAIRINGS:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Cheesy baked pasta
• Herb butter rice pilaf
• Loaded baked potato wedges
• Creamy mushroom risotto

APPETIZERS:

• Cheese platter with crackers and grapes
• Stuffed mini peppers
• Marinated olives and nuts mix
• Bruschetta with tomato and basil
• Spinach and feta phyllo bites

STORAGE INFORMATION:

FRIDGE:

• Keep these bundles in a tight box and stock them for about three days.

FREEZER:

• We do not suggest storing these bundles because bacon will lose its crispy texture, and asparagus will be softer after defrosting.

FAQs:

Will we prepare these bundles as vegetarian?

• Yes, you can use eggplant ribbons or zucchini strips as an alternative to bacon.

How do I retain the bacon’s crispy texture?

• Do not crowd the pan too much, and lastly, broil it.

Could we prepare these bundles earlier?

• Yes, you can assemble these bundles earlier, chill them for about 12 hours, and then bake.

May we prepare these bundles by air-frying?

• Yes, you can cook these bundles by air-frying at 190° Celsius for twelve minutes.

NUTRITIONAL FACTS:

Calories: 210 kcal

Sodium: 480 mg

Net carbs: 4 g

Fiber: 2.5 g

Sugar: 2 g

Fats: 15 g

Proteins: 12 g

Portion Size: 5 wrapped spears

Total carbs: 6 g