Imagine transforming ordinary asparagus into a gourmet side dish that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! This Italian-inspired recipe combines the crisp, green freshness of asparagus with the irresistible crunch of bacon, a zesty splash of lemon, and a luxurious sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. In just 15 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that elevates humble vegetables into a culinary masterpiece that's both elegant and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the asparagus by washing thoroughly and trimming off the tough woody ends. To do this, gently bend each asparagus spear near the bottom until it naturally snaps, discarding the tough end.
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp and golden brown, stirring occasionally, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the crispy bacon pieces and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the trimmed asparagus spears. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté the asparagus for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they become bright green and tender-crisp. The asparagus should be slightly charred in spots but still maintain a slight crunch.
- Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the asparagus, tossing to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the asparagus, which will add brightness and help cut through the richness of the bacon.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the asparagus to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon pieces over the asparagus.
- Finish by generously garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt slightly from the warmth of the asparagus.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the combination of crisp asparagus, salty bacon, tangy lemon, and rich Parmesan.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Asparagus: Select firm, bright green spears with tight, compact tips. The fresher the asparagus, the more tender and flavorful your dish will be.
- Trim Correctly: Always snap or cut off the woody bottom ends. This ensures you're only cooking the most tender part of the asparagus.
- High Heat is Key: Use medium-high heat to achieve those beautiful char marks while maintaining a crisp-tender texture.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook asparagus in a single layer to ensure even cooking and proper caramelization.
- Timing Matters: Sauté for 4-6 minutes max to preserve the bright green color and prevent mushy texture.
- Save Those Bacon Drippings: The bacon fat adds incredible depth of flavor to the asparagus, so don't discard it!
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with salt, pepper, and the lemon juice – they bring out the asparagus's natural flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
