Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus is a fantastic combo of crispy and salty goodness! The fresh asparagus is embraced by buttery prosciutto, making it a delightful treat.
This dish is super easy to make, and I love serving it at parties. Plus, it looks fancy without too much effort. Who doesn’t love a tasty, healthy snack that impresses guests? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key to this dish. Look for firm, green spears with tight tips. If asparagus isn’t in season, try using green beans for a similar crunch or zucchini for a different flavor.
Prosciutto: This salty, thinly sliced ham is perfect for wrapping. If you can’t find prosciutto, substitute with thin slices of pancetta or even smoked turkey for a different taste.
Olive Oil: While olive oil adds richness, you can use melted butter if you prefer a more luxurious finish. Grape seed oil is another alternative that also works well.
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but adds a nice touch. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Wrap Asparagus Perfectly?
Wrapping asparagus can be tricky, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by taking a half slice of prosciutto and placing it at the tip of the asparagus spear.
- Begin wrapping it around the asparagus, keeping the slice slightly stretched so it hugs the spear snugly. It’s okay to overlap a little!
- Continue wrapping until you reach the bottom of the asparagus. Leave the bottom unwrapped but ensure the prosciutto is secure.
Remember, the tighter the wrap, the better the prosciutto will adhere while baking. Happy cooking!
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12-15 spears), trimmed
- 6-8 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake, totaling around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or elegant appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to get that prosciutto crispy and the asparagus tender.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Rinse your asparagus under cold water to clean it. Use a sharp knife to trim off the woody ends of each spear, typically about 1-2 inches from the bottom, so they’re nice and tender for eating.
3. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Take a half slice of prosciutto and start wrapping it around the asparagus spear. Begin at the top, just below the tip, and spiral down to the bottom, overlapping slightly. Don’t be afraid to use your hands to make it snug; the prosciutto will hold its shape while baking!
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place the wrapped asparagus spears in a single layer on the baking sheet. This way, they bake evenly and get nice and crispy!
5. Season and Bake:
Drizzle olive oil over the wrapped spears, making sure to coat them lightly. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. (No need for extra salt since prosciutto is already salty.) Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto edges are crispy.
6. Add Final Touches:
If you like, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top for extra flavor and a pop of color before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These tasty treats are best served warm as an appetizer or side dish. Enjoy your delightful Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh asparagus for the best texture and flavor. However, if you only have frozen asparagus, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before wrapping it in prosciutto. This will help maintain crispiness while baking!
What Can I Use Instead of Prosciutto?
If you don’t have prosciutto, try using thinly sliced pancetta or turkey bacon as alternatives. Both will still give you that salty, savory flavor, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so watch them closely.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, just until warmed through and the prosciutto regains some of its crispness.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the asparagus wrapped in prosciutto earlier in the day and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them as directed. This makes it a great option for entertaining!