Bacon-wrapped green beans

Ingredients
For the Bundles
Fresh green beans (1 pound): Trimmed.
Bacon (8-10 slices): Cut in half.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For drizzling.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): For flavor.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): For seasoning.
Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): For flavor.
For the Glaze (Optional)
Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): For sweetness.
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): For umami flavor.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): For added depth.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
Trim Beans: Wash and trim the ends of the green beans.
Blanch (Optional): For a brighter color and tender texture, blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
Step 3: Assemble the Bundles
Group Beans: Take about 6-8 green beans and bundle them together.
Wrap with Bacon: Wrap a half slice of bacon around each bundle, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
Step 4: Season and Drizzle
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the bacon-wrapped bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the bundles with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If using the glaze, mix the brown sugar, soy sauce, and black pepper, then drizzle over the bundles.
Step 5: Bake
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender. If desired, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Step 6: Serve
Plate and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a side dish or appetizer!