Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds asparagus spears, trimmed 4 to 5 inches long tips

• Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

• A few grinds black pepper

• 4 slices center-cut bacon or pancetta

• Chopped chives or scallions, optional garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven, if using, to 400 degrees F.

2. Lightly coat asparagus spears in extra-virgin olive oil. Season the asparagus with black pepper. Take a quick count of the spear tips. Divide the total number by four. Gather that number of spears and use a slice of bacon to wrap the bundle and secure the spears together. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

3. To grill, place bundles on a hot grill and cover. Cook 10 to 12 minutes until bacon is crisp and asparagus bundles are tender.

4. For oven preparation, place bundles on a slotted broiler pan. Bake 12 minutes.

This recipe adapted from foodnetwork.com