These elegant bacon-wrapped asparagus spears require just four ingredients but deliver maximum flavor and satisfaction, with crispy bacon perfectly complementing tender asparagus for a keto appetizer with only 2g net carbs per serving.

Recipe Details
Units:
Prep: 10 Cook: 15
Ingredients
  • 450g thick asparagus spears, trimmed
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon slices
  • 30ml extra virgin olive oil
  • 60g Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Trim woody ends from 450g thick asparagus spears spears. Pat completely dry with paper towels.

  3. Wrap each asparagus spear with one slice of 12 slices thin-cut bacon slices, starting at the bottom and spiraling up, leaving the tip exposed.

  4. Arrange wrapped spears on the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down to prevent unwrapping.

  5. Drizzle lightly with 30ml extra virgin olive oil and roast for 12-15 minutes until bacon is crispy and asparagus is tender.

  6. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with 60g Parmesan cheese while hot so it melts slightly.

  7. Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.

Tips

Asparagus Thickness: Choose thick spears that won't overcook before the bacon crisps. Thin asparagus becomes mushy in this preparation.

Bacon Type: Thin-cut bacon wraps more easily and crisps better than thick-cut. Regular bacon works better than center-cut for wrapping.

Wrapping Technique: Start at the base and wrap snugly but not too tightly. The bacon will shrink as it cooks.

Seam Placement: Place seam-side down on the baking sheet to prevent the bacon from unwrapping during cooking.

Doneness Check: Bacon should be golden brown and crispy. If asparagus is tender but bacon needs more time, increase heat to 220°C (425°F) for 2-3 minutes.

Carb Count: Approximately 2g net carbs per serving, making this perfect for ketogenic diets.

Make-Ahead: Can be wrapped up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake.

Serving Ideas: Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or as a sophisticated side dish with steak or roasted chicken.