ASPARAGUS WITH BACON AND ONION

1 1/2 lbs fresh asparagus, trimmed

2 tbsp olive or canola oil
1/4 tsp salt, divided
1/4 tsp pepper, divided
6 strips of bacon, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 tbsp cider vinegar
1 tsp sesame seeds, toasted

Place the asparagus in a 15 x 10-inch baking dish or pan.  Drizzle with the oil; sprinkle with half the salt and half the pepper.  Bake at 400 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes until lightly browned.

While asparagus bakes, in a small skillet cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp.  Remove to paper towels; drain, reserve 2 teaspoons of the drippings.

Saute the chopped onion in the reserved drippings until tender.  Remove from heat and stir in the vinegar, bacon, and the rest of the salt and pepper.

Transfer the asparagus to a large shallow bowl and top with the warm bacon dressing.  Toss gently to coat; sprinkle with the sesame seeds.

Yield: 4 servings

Photo and recipe from an old TOH.