Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) fresh asparagus, thick stalks preferred, woody ends trimmed
  • 8 slices (225g) center-cut bacon, cut in half crosswise
  • 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Trim the tough ends of the asparagus.
  2. Wrap each asparagus spear with a half-slice of bacon, overlapping slightly.
  3. Place bacon-wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (if using). Make sure they aren't overcrowded
  4. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season with pepper.
  5. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the bacon-wrapped asparagus.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving. Remove toothpicks (if used).