These prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears are a yummy treat! The salty, crispy prosciutto pairs perfectly with the fresh, crunchy asparagus. It’s an easy option for a tasty appetizer!
Honestly, who can resist that combo? I love how simple it is to make—just wrap and bake! Plus, they look fancy, so you can impress your friends without much fuss. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is vital for this dish’s crispness. Look for firm, bright green spears. If asparagus is out of season, you can use green beans as a substitute for a similar crunch.
Prosciutto: This dry-cured ham adds a lovely salty flavor. If you can’t find prosciutto, try using pancetta or even turkey bacon for a lighter option, but note that cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil: A little olive oil helps the asparagus roast perfectly. If desired, you can use melted butter for a richer flavor, or swap for a flavored oil like garlic or lemon-infused oil.
Seasoning: Freshly ground black pepper is key, but feel free to add garlic powder, lemon zest, or even some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Prosciutto?
Getting prosciutto crispy can be tricky, but it’s important for this recipe. Here’s how to ensure that perfect crunch:
- Wrap the prosciutto snugly around the asparagus; loose wrapping can lead to sogginess.
- Make sure to space the bundles out on the baking sheet, so they roast evenly.
- Baking at a high temperature (400°F or 200°C) allows the prosciutto to render its fat quickly, leading to a nice crisp.
- Keep an eye on them; bake for about 10-15 minutes, and pull them out as soon as the prosciutto begins to crisp.
These simple steps will help you achieve that crispy prosciutto you’ve been looking for!
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12-15 spears)
- 6-8 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to bake, so you should be enjoying your delicious prosciutto-wrapped asparagus in around 25-30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help to crisp up the prosciutto while cooking the asparagus just right. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup later on.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water, then trim about 1-2 inches off the bottom to remove the tough woody ends. This will give you tender, tasty bites!
3. Coat with Olive Oil:
Drizzle the trimmed asparagus with olive oil in a bowl. Gently toss them to coat evenly in the oil, which enhances the flavor and promotes even roasting.
4. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Take one slice of prosciutto and cut it lengthwise in half. Wrap each piece of prosciutto around 2-3 asparagus spears, starting from the bottom and spiraling upwards. Repeat this process until all asparagus spears are wrapped.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus bundles neatly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t crowded for even cooking.
6. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are ready when the asparagus is tender, and the prosciutto is crisp and golden.
7. Add Finishing Touches:
Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Optionally, sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the top, and add grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for a beautiful garnish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears warm as an appetizer or a delightful side dish. Enjoy every bite!
Bon appétit and enjoy your crispy, savory prosciutto-wrapped asparagus!
Can I Use Different Meats Instead of Prosciutto?
Absolutely! If you can’t find prosciutto, you can use pancetta, bacon, or even turkey bacon as alternatives. Just be aware that cooking times might vary, especially with thick cuts like bacon, which may need a few extra minutes to crisp up properly.
Can I Pre-Make These and Heat Them Later?
You can definitely prepare the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus in advance. Assemble them and store them in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, just pop them in a preheated oven and bake until heated through and the prosciutto is crispy—about 10-15 minutes should do the trick!
What Should I Serve with Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains! Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish. It’s also a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board or served with a refreshing salad for a lighter meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to retain the crispiness of the prosciutto, or microwave them for a quicker option, although the texture may be less crispy.