Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus is a delightful dish that brings together the salty goodness of prosciutto and the fresh crunch of asparagus. It’s a perfect snack or appetizer!
Wrapping asparagus in prosciutto is so easy, and the flavors work together beautifully. I like to serve these warm, but they’re tasty even at room temperature. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key here. Look for bright green, firm spears. If asparagus isn’t in season, you could use green beans or zucchini strips as alternatives. They won’t have the same flavor but will still taste great when wrapped!
Prosciutto: I recommend using high-quality prosciutto for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey or chicken bacon instead. For a vegetarian version, consider wrapping the asparagus in thin slices of cheese or using smoked tempeh.
Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil is perfect for drizzling because it adds a nice flavor. If you don’t have it, any light vegetable oil will do. Just avoid using oils with strong flavors like sesame oil.
How Can I Get Crispy Prosciutto on My Asparagus?
Getting the prosciutto crispy while keeping the asparagus tender is important. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before you start preparing the dish. A hot oven helps crisp the prosciutto quickly.
- Ensure the wrapped asparagus is spread out properly on the baking sheet. This helps the hot air circulate around each spear, allowing for even cooking and browning.
- Keep an eye on them while roasting. If they start to crisp up too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning.
These tips will help you serve perfectly crispy prosciutto-wrapped asparagus every time!
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch asparagus (about 12-15 spears), trimmed
- 6-8 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: freshly chopped parsley for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer or side dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, so you can have them ready in just about 25 minutes total. Perfect for a quick gathering or a cozy dinner at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is just right for making the prosciutto crispy while keeping the asparagus tender.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Next, wash your asparagus under cold water, then trim off about 1-2 inches from the bottoms to remove any tough parts. This will help ensure they cook evenly and taste great!
3. Wrap Asparagus with Prosciutto:
Take a half slice of prosciutto and start wrapping it around each asparagus spear at the bottom, spiraling it up to near the top. It should be snug but not too tight. This will give it a lovely look and flavor!
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place all the wrapped asparagus spears onto a baking sheet. Make sure to space them out a bit so they can cook evenly. You can use parchment paper or lightly grease the sheet with olive oil to prevent sticking.
5. Season and Drizzle:
Now, drizzle the olive oil over the spears. Sprinkle some salt and freshly ground black pepper on top, but remember that the prosciutto is already salty, so don’t overdo it!
6. Roast in the Oven:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and roast the asparagus for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy and slightly golden. You want that tasty crunch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. If you’d like, you can garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a nice citrusy touch! Enjoy this delicious dish either warm or at room temperature.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of prosciutto?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for alternatives, thinly sliced turkey or chicken bacon works well. For a vegetarian version, consider using smoked tempeh or wrapping the asparagus in cheese slices, like mozzarella.
How do I know when the asparagus is properly cooked?
The asparagus should be tender but still have a slight crunch. Check for tenderness by piercing a spear with a fork; if it goes in easily, it’s ready. The prosciutto should appear crispy and golden brown.
Can I prepare these asparagus bites in advance?
Yes! You can wrap the asparagus with prosciutto ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few hours. Just place them on the baking sheet and bake when you’re ready to serve them for maximum freshness!
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Store any leftovers 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 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through, to help retain the crispiness of the prosciutto.
