Roasted Asparagus with Bacon and Cheese Recipe

Name: Roasted Asparagus with Bacon and Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 23 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 pound asparagus, tough ends trimmed; 3 slices bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 oz freshly shredded white Cheddar; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; lemon wedge

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Asparagus with Bacon and Cheddar

Ingredients

1 pound asparagus, tough ends trimmed
3 slices bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 ounce freshly shredded white Cheddar cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 lemon wedge

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).
Place the bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking until the bacon is evenly browned, about 10 minutes.
Once cooked, drain the bacon on a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess grease.
Lightly coat a baking sheet with the bacon grease left in the pan.
Evenly arrange the asparagus on the baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 5 minutes.
After 5 minutes, remove the asparagus from the oven. Squeeze the juice from the lemon wedge evenly over the asparagus.
Sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces and freshly shredded cheddar cheese over the asparagus. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	129	6%
Total Fat	5g	6%
Saturated Fat	2g	9%
Cholesterol	12mg	4%
Sodium	261mg	11%
Total Carbohydrate	21g	7%
Dietary Fiber	7g	25%
Total Sugars	6g	-
Protein	8g	17%
Vitamin C	98mg	109%
Calcium	96mg	7%
Iron	2mg	12%
Potassium	533mg	11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Roasted asparagus with bacon and cheese is a comforting and flavorful dish that has captured the hearts of home cooks and food lovers alike. This dish blends the earthy, fresh taste of asparagus with the rich, smoky flavor of crispy bacon and the creamy indulgence of melted cheese. It's simple to prepare yet offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that make it perfect as a side dish for a variety of main courses.

History of Roasted Asparagus with Bacon and Cheese

Asparagus has been cultivated for thousands of years, with origins tracing back to ancient Egypt and the Mediterranean. Historically, it was considered a delicacy reserved for royalty, due to its tender texture and vibrant green color. Bacon, on the other hand, has deep roots in European culinary traditions, with its production dating back to the Roman Empire. The marriage of asparagus and bacon likely emerged in more recent times, with the rise of American comfort food culture, where bacon is often paired with vegetables to enhance their flavor profile. The addition of cheese to this combination adds a layer of richness, making it a modern take on a traditional pairing of earthy vegetables with fatty meats.

Regional Features and Variations

While roasted asparagus with bacon and cheese is widely enjoyed across the United States, variations of this dish can be found in different regions. In the Southern United States, for example, a sharp cheddar cheese is often used to complement the savory bacon. In contrast, the Pacific Northwest might feature a more delicate cheese, like goat cheese, to pair with the asparagus. The dish can also be found in European countries, where roasted vegetables, particularly asparagus, are often served as a side with meats or incorporated into hearty stews.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Roasted asparagus with bacon and cheese stands out from other similar dishes like roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans due to the unique flavor profile created by the combination of ingredients. Asparagus is more delicate and has a distinct earthy taste compared to other vegetables typically paired with bacon. The addition of cheese, particularly when it's melted on top of the roasted asparagus, enhances its natural flavors, creating a balance between the bitterness of the asparagus, the smokiness of the bacon, and the richness of the cheese. Many similar vegetable dishes may not feature all three components together, making this recipe a special treat for those who enjoy savory, cheesy side dishes.

Where It's Commonly Served

Roasted asparagus with bacon and cheese is often served in American homes, especially during holiday meals such as Thanksgiving or Easter, where it acts as a flavorful side dish. Its also a common offering at restaurants, particularly those that focus on American or comfort food. The dish pairs exceptionally well with roasted meats, such as chicken, turkey, or beef, and it makes a great addition to brunch tables, where it can be served alongside eggs and other breakfast items.

Interesting Facts About Asparagus

Did you know that asparagus is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Its rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and is known for its potential health benefits, including promoting digestive health and acting as a natural diuretic. Asparagus is also one of the few vegetables that is available year-round, though its best when in season during the spring months. The high-fiber content in asparagus makes it a great food for aiding digestion, and it has been shown to support the body's natural detoxification processes.

Another fun fact: Asparagus is a member of the lily family, which also includes onions, garlic, and lilies themselves. It grows in a variety of colors, with green being the most common. White asparagus, which is grown underground to avoid sunlight, has a milder flavor and is often seen as a delicacy in Europe.

Conclusion

Roasted asparagus with bacon and cheese is a versatile, flavorful dish that showcases the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and earthy flavors. Whether served for a holiday dinner, a casual meal, or as a side dish to complement your favorite entre, its sure to please any crowd. With its historical roots and regional variations, this dish is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Try it for your next gathering and enjoy the blend of flavors that have made it a modern favorite in kitchens across the world.

FAQ about Roasted Asparagus with Bacon and Cheese Recipe

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. However, the asparagus may lose some of its crispness.

Yes, you can substitute the white Cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gouda. Each cheese will bring a slightly different flavor, so choose according to your preference.

Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a lighter alternative to regular bacon. However, turkey bacon may not render as much fat, so you may want to use a little olive oil to coat the baking sheet for roasting the asparagus.

If you don’t have fresh lemon, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. A tablespoon of lemon juice should be enough to replace the juice from one lemon wedge.

To make this recipe vegetarian, you can simply omit the bacon and use a plant-based bacon alternative, or replace the bacon with toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch.

You can prepare the bacon and asparagus in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just roast the asparagus and finish the dish with cheese and bacon when ready to serve.

It's not recommended to freeze roasted asparagus with bacon and cheese, as the texture may change upon thawing. However, you can freeze the bacon and asparagus separately and assemble the dish fresh when ready to serve.

This dish works great as a side to main courses like grilled chicken, steak, or fish. You can also serve it alongside other roasted vegetables or a light salad.