This week it is all about getting ready for Easter! I love the season of Spring because it has so many sweet memories for me. My best memory is bringing home my sweet Jackson from the hospital on Easter Sunday 13 years ago. This year we will be celebrating his 13th on Easter! So, I am planning a super meal. All of his favorites as well as the old standbys.
Here is one incredible side dish that will make the most aprehensive asparagus eater give it a whirl! The smoky applewood bacon along with the tangy glaze makes these a favorite at my house!
Spring Asparagus Bundles
2 pounds asparagus, trimmed
8 pieces thick cut applewood smoked bacon
3 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon soy sauce
1/8 teaspoon sesame oil
Place about 4-5 asparagus on each bacon strip. Wrap bacon around beans and secure with a toothpick or place loose ends on the bottom. Place on an ungreased baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce and sesame oil; brush over bundles. Bake at 400° for 10-15 minutes or until bacon is crisp.
No need to go and by a $100 ham to get a good meal! I have just what you are looking for when it comes to glazes! I love a good spiral sliced ham and add a supreme glaze and that is HEAVEN!! Check out my twists on glaze!
Ham 101 and Glazes
Coca Cola Peanut Butter Glaze
1 can Coca Cola
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup honey
1 clove garlic, chopped
2 teaspoons soy sauce
Whisk together in a small bowl. Microwave or heat in a sauce pan till peanut butter is smooth. Brush onto ham the last 30 minutes of cooking time. Remove from oven and allow to cool 15 minutes before serving.
Tiki Glaze
2 cups mango nectar
1/4 cup apricot pineapple preserves
4 teaspoons minced peeled fresh ginger
1 tablespoon grated lemon peel
1 tablespoon grated lime peel
2 teaspoons ground coriander
juice of 1 lime
In a small sauce pan heat together all the ingredients and bring to a boil for 1 minute. Brush on ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.