Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus is a simple and tasty treat! You get the crispiness of fresh asparagus with the salty, savory goodness of prosciutto wrapped around it. What’s not to love?
Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, I enjoy these little bundles at dinner parties. They’re quick to make too! Just wrap, bake, and impress your friends—easy peasy! 🥦✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for this dish. Look for bright green spears that are firm and straight. If asparagus isn’t in season, you can use green beans or zucchini strips as a substitute.
Prosciutto: This thin, salty Italian ham adds a wonderful flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try turkey bacon or pancetta. They provide a similar texture, though the taste will differ slightly.
Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances the flavor and helps crisp the prosciutto. If you need an alternative, avocado oil or melted butter work well. Just remember to keep those flavors delicate!
Lemon Juice/Balsamic Glaze: Both add a bright finish. If you don’t have either, a splash of white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar would also work for a zesty kick!
How Do I Ensure the Prosciutto Stays Crisp?
To keep your prosciutto nice and crisp, it’s important to follow a few simple steps:
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each bundle space to allow the air to circulate, which helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Preheat the oven thoroughly before placing in the asparagus. A hot oven helps cook the prosciutto quickly, keeping it crisp.
- You can also turn on the broiler for the last minute or two of cooking, but watch closely to avoid burning!
These tips are my go-to for ensuring everything comes out just right. Enjoy your delicious prosciutto-wrapped asparagus!
How to Make Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 15-20 spears), ends trimmed
- 8-10 thin slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or balsamic glaze for finishing
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 12-15 minutes to cook. So, you’ll have a delicious appetizer or side dish ready in about 25-30 minutes total. Quick and totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help our asparagus cook perfectly and get that prosciutto crispy.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Wash the asparagus gently under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel. Trim the tough ends of the asparagus, usually about 1-2 inches from the bottom, so they’re tender and easy to eat.
3. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Gather 3-4 asparagus spears and take a half slice of prosciutto, wrapping it around the middle of the spears. The prosciutto should cover the asparagus nicely, but don’t worry if it’s not perfectly wrapped. Do this for all the spears!
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus bundles on a lined baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer. You want each bundle to roast evenly in the oven!
5. Add Olive Oil and Seasoning:
Drizzle a little olive oil over the asparagus bundles. This helps keep them tender while roasting. Then, sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper on top. Remember, the prosciutto is salty enough on its own, so no need for extra salt!
6. Roast in the Oven:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast the asparagus for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for tender asparagus and lightly crispy prosciutto. Yum!
7. Optional Finishing Touch:
Once done, take them out and if you like, squeeze some lemon juice or drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top. This adds a nice fresh zing!
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you want to get fancy, sprinkle some chopped parsley or a bit of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor. Then, serve them warm as a delightful appetizer or side dish!
Enjoy the happy combination of fresh asparagus and salty prosciutto that will surely impress your friends and family! 🎉🥗
Can I Use Thin Asparagus for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Thin asparagus spears work well and can actually cook a bit faster. Just keep an eye on them while roasting, as they may need a minute or two less to achieve that perfect tenderness.
What Should I Do if I Can’t Find Prosciutto?
No worries! If you can’t find prosciutto, you can substitute it with pancetta or even turkey bacon for a lighter option. While the flavor will vary slightly, they will still provide a delicious contrast to the asparagus!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, until warmed through, to help restore some crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can absolutely prepare them ahead! Wrap the asparagus in prosciutto, cover, and refrigerate. Just roast them just before serving for the best texture—this way, they’ll be nice and crispy!
