Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus is a fun and tasty appetizer. The salty prosciutto pairs perfectly with the crisp, fresh asparagus, making it a crowd-pleaser!
Wrapping the asparagus can feel like a mini cooking project, and it’s a great way to impress your friends. I love serving these warm with a hint of lemon! 🍋✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for this dish. Look for firm, bright green stalks. If asparagus isn’t in season, try green beans or zucchini as alternatives—they can also be wrapped and roasted!
Prosciutto: This salty Italian ham adds flavor. If you need a substitution, try pancetta or even bacon, but remember that bacon may take a little longer to crisp up when cooking.
Olive Oil: I like using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor. You can substitute with melted butter or avocado oil if preferred or if you need a dairy-free option!
Lemon: A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish. If you don’t have lemon on hand, a splash of balsamic vinegar adds a nice tang as well.
How Do You Wrap the Asparagus with Prosciutto?
Wrapping asparagus with prosciutto can be tricky if you’re not used to it, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it. Here’s how to do it right:
- Take a slice of prosciutto and cut it in half lengthwise if required.
- Hold the asparagus spear at the bottom and start wrapping the prosciutto around it, spiraling up towards the tip.
- Keep the prosciutto slightly taut but not too tight—you want it to crisp up while cooking.
- Let the tips of the asparagus show at the end, as this adds a nice visual touch and ensures even cooking.
Practice makes perfect, and even if the wraps aren’t perfect, they’ll still taste great!
How to Make Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Fresh Asparagus: 1 bunch (about 12-15 spears), trimmed
- Prosciutto: 6-8 slices, halved lengthwise
- Olive Oil: 1-2 tablespoons
- Salt: to taste
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: to taste
- Fresh Lemon Wedges: optional, for serving
- Fresh Parsley or Chives: chopped, optional, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple and tasty dish requires about 10 minutes for preparation and an additional 12-15 minutes for baking. In just under 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious appetizer or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper, or lightly grease it with olive oil. This will keep the asparagus from sticking!
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Next, wash the asparagus under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim the tough ends by bending each spear until it snaps at the natural breaking point. This helps keep the tender part of the asparagus!
3. Season the Asparagus:
Now, drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything gently so that the asparagus is evenly coated in oil and seasoning.
4. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Time for the fun part! Take each asparagus spear and wrap it with a piece of prosciutto. Start at the bottom and spiral it up toward the tip, leaving a little bit of green exposed at the top. This not only looks great but ensures everything cooks evenly!
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place all the wrapped asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t crowded or overlapping to get that nice crispiness!
6. Bake until Crisp:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the asparagus to be tender and the prosciutto crispy, but not burnt.
7. Finish and Garnish:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Transfer the asparagus to a serving dish. If you like, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for some zing, and sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives for extra color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears are best served warm as an appetizer or a tasty side dish. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Bon appétit! ✨
Can I Use Different Vegetables Besides Asparagus?
Absolutely! While asparagus is traditional, you can also use green beans, zucchini, or even bell pepper strips. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetable you choose, as some may cook faster than others.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the asparagus and wrap them in prosciutto up to a day in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and keep them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply pop them in the oven straight from the fridge—you may need to add a minute or two to the baking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for best results, helping retain that crispiness.
Can I Make These in an Air Fryer?
Yes! You can absolutely make prosciutto-wrapped asparagus in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 7-10 minutes, checking regularly until both the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy. Enjoy this quicker cooking method!
