Ready in: 20 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Sautéing · Storage: 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
Sauté asparagus in bacon fat with garlic for a delicious holiday side dish.
As the crisp autumn air fills my New York City kitchen and the leaves turn golden outside my window, I find myself excitedly preparing for the festive gatherings ahead. One dish that has captured my heart—and my taste buds—is Sautéed Garlic Asparagus with Bacon. This delectable recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also the perfect complement to Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. The bright green spears of asparagus dancing in a fragrant garlic and bacon symphony bring both elegance and comfort to our holiday tables.
A Festive Side Dish
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple yet elegant dish perfect for holiday gatherings.
- The combination of bacon and garlic creates an irresistible aroma.
- Fresh asparagus adds vibrant color and nutrition to your table.
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy hosts during the festive season.
- Delicious warm or at room temperature, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Gather the following fresh ingredients to create a delightful side dish.
Vegetables
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
Meat
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped
Seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How to Make Sautéed Garlic Asparagus with Bacon (Step-by-Step)
This quick and flavorful recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by placing your stovetop in medium heat. In a large skillet, add the chopped bacon. Sizzle the bacon strips until they’re crispy and golden, approximately 5-7 minutes. The savory scent of the bacon will bring everyone running to the kitchen.
Step 2: Sauté the Asparagus
Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon of the rendered fat behind. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the fresh asparagus to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, turning the asparagus until they’re bright green and tender-crisp.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to brown. Monitor closely to prevent the garlic from burning.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. The rich flavor of bacon combined with the asparagus and aromatic garlic will be a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the sautéed asparagus and bacon to a serving dish and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick. Enjoy the dish warm, as it’s best served fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not trimming the asparagus properly can lead to tough bits; ensure you snap off the woody ends.
- Overcooking the asparagus is a no-no. You want tender-crisp, not mushy greens.
- Forgetting to reserve some bacon fat can result in a less flavorful dish; it’s packed with deliciousness!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Choose fresh asparagus with vibrant green spears and firm tips for the best flavor.
- Keep an eye on the garlic while it cooks to prevent it from turning bitter.
- Use thick-cut bacon for more texture, and consider experimenting with different types for added flavor.
Variations
- Swap out bacon for pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Add toasted pine nuts or almonds for an extra crunch.
- Incorporate cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and sweetness.
- Include shaved Parmesan or feta cheese on top for a cheesy touch.
How to Serve
- Garnish with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
- Pair with roasted chicken or fish as part of your main course.
- Serve warm as a side dish at holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the bacon and asparagus a few hours in advance, but it’s best to sauté them just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water to help steam the asparagus back to life.
- Freezing: This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the asparagus can become mushy.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While perfecting this recipe, I discovered that adding a splash of lemon really elevates the dish, brightening the flavors like a New York City skyline at sunset. It’s a simple addition, but it makes all the difference at the holiday table. Enjoy making this dish, and watch your guests gather around—just as mine always do!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~150 calories · 5g protein · 8g carbs · 12g fat
Sautéed Garlic Asparagus with Bacon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing your stovetop in medium heat. In a large skillet, add the chopped bacon. Sizzle the bacon strips until they’re crispy and golden, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon of the rendered fat behind. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the fresh asparagus to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, turning the asparagus until they’re bright green and tender-crisp.
- Lower the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to brown. Monitor closely to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Transfer the sautéed asparagus and bacon to a serving dish and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick.
Notes
FAQs
What type of bacon is best for this recipe?
For this recipe, it’s recommended to use thick-cut bacon for a better texture. You can also experiment with different types, such as applewood smoked bacon for a deeper flavor.
How can I tell if the asparagus is fresh?
When selecting asparagus, look for vibrant green spears with firm tips. Avoid any stalks that are limp or wilted as they may not be fresh.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and reheat gently in a skillet before serving.
