Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus is an easy and classy dish that turns crunchy asparagus into a tasty bite. The salty prosciutto adds a yummy flavor that everyone loves!
These little bundles look fancy, but they’re super simple to make. I often serve them at parties, and they disappear faster than I can put them out! They’re just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is essential for this dish. Look for firm, bright green spears. If asparagus is out of season, you can use green beans or zucchini as alternatives.
Prosciutto: This thinly sliced Italian ham is what gives the dish its lovely flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with thinly sliced bacon or turkey bacon for a different taste, though cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil: This helps crisp up the prosciutto and adds moisture. If you don’t have olive oil, feel free to use melted butter for a richer flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: While optional, I love adding grated Parmesan for an extra umami kick. If you want a dairy-free option, you could use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Keep the Asparagus Crunchy and the Prosciutto Crispy?
A common challenge with this recipe is ensuring the asparagus stays tender while the prosciutto gets crispy. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven fully. This helps achieve a nice crispness right from the start.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; give the bundles space so they can cook evenly.
- Check them at the 12-minute mark. If the prosciutto isn’t crispy yet, give them a few extra minutes, watching closely.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfect results every time!
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12-16 spears)
- 6-8 slices of prosciutto (thinly sliced)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese or lemon zest for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to bake, so you can have this delightful dish ready in around 25-30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil—this makes for easy cleanup later!
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Wash the asparagus under cool water and gently pat them dry. Then, trim off the woody ends at the bottom, which is usually about 1-2 inches. This ensures you’re left with the tender part of the spear.
3. Create Bundles:
Grab 2-3 spears of asparagus and group them together to create small bundles. This makes it easier to wrap them in prosciutto and gives lovely presentation.
4. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Take one slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each asparagus bundle, starting at the bottom and spiraling up. Make sure to cover most of the spears with the prosciutto for the best flavor.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the wrapped bundles on your prepared baking sheet, so the seam of the prosciutto faces down and holds everything together.
6. Drizzle Olive Oil:
Lightly drizzle the bundles with olive oil, coating them evenly. This not only adds flavor but helps in achieving that crispy goodness.
7. Season:
Gently sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper to taste. You won’t need any salt since the prosciutto is already salty enough!
8. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the asparagus is tender-crisp and the prosciutto is slightly crispy. Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take them out and sprinkle with optional grated Parmesan cheese or a bit of fresh lemon zest for extra flavor. Serve warm as an elegant appetizer or a delightful side dish!
Enjoy your delicious Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus! This simple yet impressive dish is sure to please your taste buds!
Can I Use Different Types of Vegetables?
Absolutely! While asparagus is traditional, you can substitute with other vegetables like green beans, zucchini, or even bell peppers. Just make sure they are cut to a similar size for even cooking.
What If I Can’t Find Prosciutto?
If prosciutto is unavailable, you can use thinly sliced bacon or turkey bacon. Just be aware that bacon will take a bit longer to crisp up, so adjust the baking time accordingly. Alternatively, look for other cured meats, like pancetta.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the wrapped asparagus in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. When ready to bake, proceed with the instructions, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if they are cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain their crispiness!
