Prosciutto wrapped asparagus is a tasty and easy appetizer. The salty prosciutto pairs perfectly with the fresh, crunchy asparagus. It’s a win-win for your taste buds!
Love how simple it is to make! Just wrap and bake, and you’ve got a fancy snack ready in no time. Perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is the star here! Look for vibrant green stalks that feel firm. If asparagus isn’t in season, green beans can work as an alternative.
Prosciutto: This salty Italian ham brings tons of flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey bacon or even bacon itself. Just note that bacon may require a longer cooking time.
Olive Oil: Used for coating the asparagus, olive oil adds richness. If you prefer, avocado oil or melted butter are good substitutes, giving a different flavor profile.
Seasonings: Freshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick. You can also play with garlic powder or lemon zest for a twist! Just be careful with the salt as prosciutto is already salty.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus?
The trick to achieving that perfect crunch lies in roasting! Here’s what you can do:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly to ensure even cooking.
- Spread the wrapped asparagus in a single layer on your baking sheet; this promotes crispness.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Everyone’s oven is a little different, so start checking around the 10-minute mark.
- For extra crispiness, you can switch your oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning!
Enjoy your delicious and satisfying appetizer! The crunch and salty flavor make it such a treat! 😊
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 lb), woody ends trimmed
- 6-8 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Sea salt or flaky salt, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped for garnish
- Optional: dipping sauce (e.g., garlic aioli or ranch dressing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 12-15 minutes of cooking time. In about 25-30 minutes, you’ll have a tasty dish ready to impress your family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking for your asparagus! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it, so nothing sticks.
2. Prep the Asparagus:
Give your fresh asparagus a good wash. Next, trim off the woody ends, about 1-2 inches from the bottom, to keep everything tender and tasty.
3. Coat with Olive Oil:
In a large bowl, toss the asparagus spears with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure they’re evenly coated, which helps achieve a lovely flavor and texture!
4. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Take about 3-4 asparagus spears, and wrap a half-slice of prosciutto around the middle. Make it snug but not too tight. Repeat this step with the remaining asparagus and prosciutto until you have all your bundles ready!
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place your wrapped asparagus bundles on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and get nice and crispy!
6. Season and Bake:
Sprinkle a light touch of freshly ground black pepper and a small pinch of sea salt over the top. Remember, prosciutto is salty, so not too much salt! Pop them in the oven and roast for 12-15 minutes until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the baking sheet out of the oven and transfer your beautiful bundles to a serving plate. If you like, garnish with some finely chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
8. Enjoy:
Serve warm and enjoy your crispy, savory prosciutto wrapped asparagus bundles! They’re fantastic on their own but even better with a side of your favorite dipping sauce.
Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious appetizer! 😊
Can I Use Different Vegetables for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While asparagus is the classic choice, you can use green beans or zucchini sticks as well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, as these vegetables may vary in tenderness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover prosciutto wrapped asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the asparagus bundles and refrigerate them before cooking. Just wrap them in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to keep fresh. Bake them when you’re ready to serve!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Dish?
These bundles make a great appetizer on their own, but you can also serve them as a side dish. Pair them with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or ranch dressing to add extra flavor!
