This prosciutto wrapped asparagus is a tasty appetizer that’s super easy to make. The salty prosciutto pairs perfectly with the crisp asparagus for a simple yet fancy bite!
I love making these for parties because they disappear fast! Just roast them in the oven for a few minutes and watch your friends go wild. Plus, they look great on a platter! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key here! Look for firm, bright green spears. If asparagus isn’t available, you can use zucchini or green beans as a substitute for a different twist.
Prosciutto: Prosciutto adds a delicious salty flavor. If you’re looking for lower sodium options, try using turkey bacon or even thin slices of pancetta instead.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps crisp the prosciutto and adds flavor. If you don’t have olive oil, canola or vegetable oil works fine, but the taste will change a bit.
Fresh Rosemary: This is optional but adds a nice aroma. You can swap it for fresh thyme or omit it entirely if you don’t have herbs on hand.
How Can I Make Sure My Asparagus Stays Tender Yet Crisp?
The secret is in the roasting! After wrapping your asparagus, the goal is to cook them just enough so they remain tender but still have a nice crunch. Here’s how:
- Preheat the oven correctly to ensure proper cooking. A hot oven helps to quickly crisp up the prosciutto without overcooking the asparagus.
- Keep an eye on them while they roast. After 12 minutes, check for doneness; you want the asparagus to be bright green and slightly tender.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after pulling them out to allow flavors to settle before serving.
With these tips, you’ll achieve perfect prosciutto wrapped asparagus every time! Enjoy your delicious creations!
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 15-20 spears), trimmed
- 8-10 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Optional: dipping sauce such as aioli or hollandaise
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish requires about 10 minutes for preparation and 12-15 minutes of cooking time. So in total, you can have it ready in about 25-30 minutes. Quick and delicious, perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to get everything nice and crispy! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for an effortless cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Now, take the fresh asparagus and trim off the tough ends, about 1-2 inches from the bottom. This will ensure you have nice, tender spears to wrap.
3. Wrap the Asparagus:
Grab 3-4 asparagus spears and take one slice of prosciutto. Wrap the prosciutto around the middle of the asparagus bundle, making sure the prosciutto is snug but not overly tight, so it cooks evenly.
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus bundles on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave a little space between each bundle for even cooking.
5. Add Olive Oil and Season:
Drizzle the olive oil over the bundles, ensuring they are coated but not drenched. Then, lightly sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper on top—no salt is needed since the prosciutto has enough flavor!
6. Roast in the Oven:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be tender and the prosciutto will be crispy when done.
7. Serve it Up:
Once they’re ready, take them out of the oven and transfer the bundles to a serving platter. Sprinkle some coarse sea salt over the top for extra flavor, and garnish with rosemary sprigs if you’d like.
8. Add Some Extras:
Serve the prosciutto wrapped asparagus with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh zest, and consider adding a dipping sauce like aioli or hollandaise for an extra touch of indulgence.
Enjoy your elegant, easy-to-make appetizer that perfectly balances crunchy asparagus and savory prosciutto!
Can I Use Different Vegetables Instead of Asparagus?
Absolutely! While asparagus is perfect for this recipe, you can substitute it with zucchini, green beans, or even bell peppers. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly with the prosciutto.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven for a few minutes until warmed through, as this will help restore the crispiness of the prosciutto.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus up to a day in advance. Simply wrap the asparagus, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to roast them. Just add a few extra minutes to the roasting time if cooking straight from the fridge.
How Do I Know When the Asparagus is Cooked Perfectly?
The asparagus should be bright green and tender but still have a slight snap to them. To check, you can pierce them with a fork; if it goes in easily but there’s still some resistance, they’re ready!
