Prosciutto wrapped asparagus is a tasty treat that’s simple to make! The salty prosciutto perfectly wraps around fresh asparagus spears, making each bite crunchy and savory.
I love serving these as a snack or appetizer—they impress everyone! Just pop them in the oven for a bit, and you’ll have a delightful dish ready to share in no time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is ideal for this recipe. Look for vibrant green spears with firm tips. If asparagus isn’t available, you can swap it for green beans or zucchini strips for a similar crunch.
Prosciutto: This salty cured ham adds excellent flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey bacon is a good substitute, although it won’t have the same rich taste. You can also use regular bacon, just keep in mind it will take longer to cook.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps crisp the prosciutto. You can use avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer. Both will work just as well to achieve that delicious crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely finish. If you’re dairy-free or prefer a different flavor, try nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative.
How Do You Wrap Asparagus with Prosciutto Properly?
Wrapping asparagus in prosciutto may seem tricky but it’s straightforward! Here’s how to do it:
- Snap or trim the end of each asparagus spear to remove tough parts.
- Take 2-3 spears and group them together. This gives a nice bundle for wrapping.
- Wrap a half slice of prosciutto starting from the bottom up, overlapping slightly as you go. This keeps the asparagus tucked neatly.
- Make sure the prosciutto is tight enough to hold the spears but not so tight that it tears.
Enjoy your beautifully wrapped asparagus! It’s a fun and easy process that yields impressive results!
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 20 spears)
- 10 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
- Dipping sauce (optional, e.g., ranch or aioli)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to bake, making for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious option for appetizers or side dishes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help the prosciutto become nice and crispy while the asparagus cooks perfectly! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Rinse the asparagus under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Snap or trim off the tough ends of the asparagus spears—this will typically be about 1-2 inches from the bottom. They should be fresh and crisp!
3. Wrap the Asparagus:
Take 2-3 asparagus spears and group them together. Wrap a half slice of prosciutto around the middle of the spears, securing them as you go. Make sure to overlap the prosciutto slightly so it holds the asparagus snugly. Repeat this with the remaining spears.
4. Bake the Bundles:
Place the wrapped bundles on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle the olive oil lightly over the bundles, and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor.
5. Watch Them Bake:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You want the asparagus to be tender and the prosciutto crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the bundles from the oven and transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top for a nice finishing touch. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce, if desired.
Enjoy these crispy, savory prosciutto wrapped asparagus bundles as a delightful appetizer or side dish! They’re sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Store-Bought Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto?
Absolutely! You can find pre-wrapped asparagus at some grocery stores. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the packaging to achieve the best results.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute with any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil. Alternatively, melted butter will give it a rich flavor as well!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the asparagus and wrap them in prosciutto ahead of time! Store them in the refrigerator for up to a day, then bake them just before serving for the freshest taste.
How Can I Store Leftover Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus?
If you have 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 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
