🥓🌱 Bacon Wrapped Asparagus with Cilantro Dressing is a delicious and visually appealing dish that combines the smoky, savory flavor of bacon with the fresh, earthy taste of asparagus, all complemented by a zesty cilantro dressing. Here’s a comprehensive response to your questions, filled with emoji goodness:
🍽️ What is Bacon Wrapped Asparagus with Cilantro Dressing?
Bacon Wrapped Asparagus with Cilantro Dressing is a mouthwatering appetizer or side dish. It features fresh asparagus spears wrapped in strips of bacon, which are then roasted or grilled to create a delightful combination of crispy and tender textures. The cilantro dressing adds a burst of flavor, making this dish a favorite among those who enjoy a balance of salty, savory, and herbaceous elements.
📜 History:
The exact origin of this dish is unclear, but it is undoubtedly a modern fusion of flavors and culinary techniques. Bacon-wrapped dishes have been popular for years, while cilantro-based dressings and marinades have their roots in various international cuisines, including Mexican and Southeast Asian.
🥓🌱 Components:
The key components of this dish are:
- Fresh asparagus spears
- Bacon strips
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- For the cilantro dressing: cilantro leaves, garlic, lime or lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
👩🍳 Steps to Prepare Bacon Wrapped Asparagus with Cilantro Dressing:
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
-
Prepare the asparagus: Trim the tough ends of the asparagus spears. Drizzle them with a bit of olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
-
Wrap with bacon: Take a bacon strip and wrap it around an asparagus spear from the bottom to the top, slightly overlapping the bacon. Repeat for each asparagus spear.
-
Roast or Grill: If roasting, place the bacon-wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet and roast for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender. If grilling, grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is charred and tender.
-
Prepare the Cilantro Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro leaves, garlic, lime or lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
-
Serve: Drizzle the cilantro dressing over the bacon-wrapped asparagus just before serving. You can also serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
⏱️ Preparation Time:
The preparation time for Bacon Wrapped Asparagus with Cilantro Dressing can vary, but it typically takes around 30-40 minutes, including prep time and cooking time. It’s a relatively quick and easy dish to make, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful dish! 🍽️😋
Certainly, here are some nutrition facts and health information for Bacon Wrapped Asparagus with Cilantro Dressing:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 180-220 kcal
- Fat: 14-16g
- Saturated Fat: 4-6g
- Cholesterol: 20-25mg
- Sodium: 350-400mg
- Carbohydrates: 2-4g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Vitamin A: 15-20% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 15-20% of the DV
- Vitamin K: 30-35% of the DV
- Folate: 10-15% of the DV
Health Information:
-
Asparagus: Asparagus is a low-calorie vegetable that’s rich in vitamins and minerals. It’s a good source of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health. Asparagus also contains folate, which is important for cell division and the formation of DNA.
-
Bacon: Bacon is delicious but should be consumed in moderation due to its high saturated fat and sodium content. Excessive consumption of bacon can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure. However, it does provide protein and some essential nutrients like B vitamins.
-
Cilantro Dressing: Cilantro is a flavorful herb used in the dressing. It adds a burst of fresh flavor to the dish. It’s a source of antioxidants and phytonutrients, but its health benefits are more about taste and culinary enjoyment.
-
Overall Balance: While this dish is tasty and can be enjoyed in moderation, it’s important to consider the balance in your overall diet. The bacon in this recipe is a source of saturated fat and sodium, so it’s a good idea to consume it alongside plenty of fresh vegetables and other nutrient-rich foods.
-
Customization: You can make this dish slightly healthier by using turkey bacon or leaner bacon options, which will reduce the saturated fat content. Additionally, you can control the amount of bacon used per serving.
Remember that the exact nutritional content of the dish can vary based on the specific ingredients and preparation method. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.
