Sweet & Spicy Sriracha Glazed Bacon Bites

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.

Cut 1 pound of bacon into 2-inch pieces and arrange them on the wire rack, ensuring they don't overlap.

Bake the bacon for 15-20 minutes until partially cooked but not yet crispy.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup sriracha, 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until well combined.

Remove the bacon from the oven and brush each piece generously with the sriracha glaze. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the glaze is caramelized.

While the bacon finishes cooking, prepare the protein-rich side. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.

Add 2 cups of shelled edamame to the boiling water and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender. Drain well.

In a bowl, combine the cooked edamame with 1/2 cup unflavored protein powder, tossing gently to coat.

Transfer the edamame to a serving dish and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon sesame seeds.

When the bacon is done, remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes (the glaze will continue to set as it cools).

Arrange the glazed bacon bites on a serving platter alongside the protein-dusted edamame.

Garnish with 3 thinly sliced green onion stalks and serve immediately.