Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 bunch of asparagus
- 8 slices of bacon
- 200g of Queso de La Serena cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and trim the asparagus, removing the woody ends.
3. Cut the Queso de La Serena cheese into small cubes.
4. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon, starting from the bottom and working your way up.
5. Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle the Queso de La Serena cheese cubes over the top of the asparagus.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 400°F (200°C)
Serving size:
- Serves 4
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Queso de La Serena cheese can be substituted with any soft, creamy cheese such as brie or camembert.
- Asparagus can be substituted with any other vegetable such as zucchini or green beans.
- Bacon can be substituted with prosciutto or pancetta.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to wrap the bacon tightly around the asparagus to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
- If the bacon is not crispy enough, broil for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is still melted and gooey.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Arrange on individual plates with a side salad for a complete meal.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary
- Balsamic glaze or honey
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is not melting, try broiling for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
- If the bacon is not crispy enough, broil for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon-wrapped asparagus to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Queso de La Serena is a soft, creamy cheese made from the milk of Merino sheep in the Extremadura region of Spain.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, salty, savory, and slightly smoky from the bacon.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or side dish at a dinner party or holiday gathering.
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Region: Spanish