There’s just something magical about bacon, isn’t there? It can elevate anything it touches, and when paired with creamy avocado, you get a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. I first stumbled upon this delightful combination at a cozy little food festival, and I couldn’t get enough of these crispy, savory bites. Every piece was a little piece of heaven, with the smoky bacon complementing the buttery avocado perfectly. I remember racing back to the vendors for a second helping, and ever since, I’ve been hooked!
What makes these bacon-wrapped avocado slices truly special, besides the fact that they’re ridiculously easy to make, is their versatility. They’re the perfect appetizer for a gathering, a fun side dish for dinner, or even a cheeky late-night snack. Trust me, once you take a bite of these crispy morsels, you’ll find it hard to stop! So, let’s dive into the wonderful world of bacon-wrapped avocado slices!
What’s in Bacon-Wrapped Avocado Slices?
Avocado: The star of the show! Ripe avocados bring a smooth, creamy texture that balances the salty crunch of the bacon. I like to use Hass avocados because they have the best flavor!
Bacon: Oh, glorious bacon! I usually go for thick-cut bacon for these bites to ensure it gets crispy and provides a nice base for wrapping. You can choose between regular or applewood-smoked bacon for that smoky flavor.
Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil will help the bacon crisp up in the oven while boosting the overall flavor. Extra virgin olive oil works great, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
Seasoning (optional): While bacon and avocado are delicious on their own, a sprinkle of pepper, paprika, or garlic powder can take things to the next level. Just keep it light to let the main ingredients shine.
Is Bacon-Wrapped Avocado Slices Good for You?
When it comes to dishes like this, it’s all about balance. On one hand, we have the delightful health benefits of **avocado**. They are packed with healthy fats, vitamins E, K, and B6, and are great for heart health. Plus, they add fiber to your diet, which helps keep things running smoothly!
However, we can’t ignore the fact that **bacon** is a bit of a guilty pleasure. While it can add a rich flavor and satisfying crunch, it’s best to enjoy it in moderation due to its saturated fat and sodium content. But hey, life is about enjoying what we love, right? So, if you’re looking to cut calories or sodium, consider using turkey bacon or baking them in the oven rather than frying them.
Ingredients List
– 2 ripe avocados (Hass is preferred)
– 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Pepper, paprika, or garlic powder (optional, to taste)
This recipe serves about 4 people, depending on how greedy everyone is!
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Avocado Slices?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Cut your avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Slice the avocado into wedges or thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, drizzle the avocado slices with olive oil and season them lightly with your choice of spices.
4. Cut the **bacon** slices in half. Take a slice and wrap it around each avocado wedge, securing the ends as best as you can.
5. Place the wrapped avocado slices on the prepared baking sheet and make sure they have a little space between them.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
7. Once ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy the glorious aroma as you prepare to dig in!
Crunch and Munch: Tips and Variations!
– Want to up your game? Try adding a slice of jalapeño or a sprinkle of cheese before wrapping with the bacon for an added kick.
– If you’re a fan of dipping sauces, whip up some spicy mayo or ranch dressing for dipping!
– You can also experiment with seasonings. A touch of chili powder or cumin can give an interesting twist to the flavor.
– Make sure to keep an eye on your bacon as it cooks. Ovens can vary, and I’ve had a few crispy bacon disasters in my time!
So, whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, these bacon-wrapped avocado slices are bound to impress. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! Please let me know how it turns out and if you added your own twist. Enjoy!