Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

Name: Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 stalks fresh asparagus; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 6 slices prosciutto, very thinly sliced; Ground black pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

March 16, 2025

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Why You’ll Love This Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both easy and elegant, you’re in the right place with Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus. This recipe masterfully blends savory prosciutto with fresh, crisp asparagus for a delightful appetizer. The combination captures both flavor and texture in every bite, delivering a burst of taste that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting unexpected guests or celebrating a special occasion, this dish can be whipped up quickly, saving you time while elevating your meal. It’s about impressing your folks without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me; once you try this simple yet sophisticated recipe, it’ll likely become a regular feature on your dinner table.

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What is a Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

Prosciutto wrapped asparagus is a classic appetizer that has captured the hearts (and palates) of food lovers everywhere. This dish involves taking fresh asparagus stalks and wrapping them in thin slices of prosciutto. The popularity of prosciutto dates back to ancient times, originating in Italy. It’s made from high-quality pork legs that are cured for several months, resulting in a rich, savory flavor.

Asparagus, on the other hand, has been enjoyed for centuries due to its tender texture and nutrient-rich profile. When these two ingredients come together, they create a dish that balances savory and fresh flavors, resulting in an irresistible bite. The saltiness of the prosciutto enhances the natural sweetness of the asparagus, making it a taste sensation.

Ingredients for Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

12 stalks fresh asparagus
1 tablespoon olive oil
6 slices prosciutto, very thinly sliced
Ground black pepper to taste

Preparing Your Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

Preheat the Broiler

It’s essential to preheat your broiler before you start cooking. This step ensures even cooking, creating that crispy prosciutto texture while keeping the asparagus perfectly tender. Set your broiler on high and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This little tip goes a long way in making sure your dish turns out just right.

Prepare the Asparagus

Start by lining a sheet pan with aluminum foil. This will make cleanup a breeze later on. Place the asparagus spears in a single layer on the pan. This step is crucial for ensuring they cook evenly and don’t steam too much. By keeping them separated, you’re aiming for that fantastic crispiness.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

Next, drizzle about one tablespoon of olive oil over the asparagus. Use your hands or a brush to gently coat each stalk evenly. This will enhance the flavor and help the prosciutto stick better during cooking. Plus, it gives a lovely golden color, adding to the dish’s visual appeal.

Cut and Wrap Prosciutto

Now, it’s time for the prosciutto. Take each slice and cut it in half lengthwise. This gives you the right size to wrap around the asparagus. Begin wrapping one piece around each stalk, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Overlap the prosciutto slightly to ensure full coverage. The goal here is to wrap it snugly but not too tight; the prosciutto will crisp up beautifully as it cooks.

Seasoning for Flavor

After wrapping, sprinkle a little ground black pepper over the asparagus. The pepper adds a nice touch of spice that enhances the flavors without overpowering the dish. While prosciutto is already salty, this seasoning elevates the taste even further.

Broil to Perfection

The last step before serving is the broiling. Place the sheet pan in the preheated broiler. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, but keep a close eye on them! You want the prosciutto to turn crispy but not burnt. Turn the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking. When they’re done, the asparagus should be tender, and the prosciutto should have a lovely golden brown color.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus is cooked, it’s ready to shine on your table. These delicious bundles can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile. Consider arranging them on a serving platter and drizzling with a balsamic reduction for an extra touch of sophistication.

They make a fantastic appetizer or a gorgeous side dish alongside grilled meats. If you’re looking for presentation ideas, try leaning the asparagus against each other or placing them in a mason jar for a rustic touch.

Tips for Success

To get the best flavor, making sure your asparagus is fresh is vital. Look for stalks that are bright green and firm. If the asparagus is too thick, you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook through but still manage to stay crisp. A handy tip: give them a taste before cooking to ensure they’re at their best.

Variations

Feel like mixing things up? There are plenty of fun variations you can try. Instead of prosciutto, you might wrap asparagus in bacon for a smokier flavor. Cheese lovers could even add a slice of mozzarella along with the prosciutto for a creamy burst. If you’re catering to vegetarians, consider using thin slices of eggplant or zucchini to wrap around the asparagus. These alternatives still honor the integrity of the dish while adding new flavors.

Pairing Ideas

To make your meal complete, think about what to pair with your Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus. A crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc complements the savory notes beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something bubbly, a nice Prosecco is always a hit. For a more hearty pairing, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or fish. The dish complements a wide range of flavors and makes every meal feel special.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, but fresh asparagus provides the best texture and flavor.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Prepare and wrap the asparagus earlier, then store in the fridge until ready to broil.

Is there a substitute for prosciutto?

Yes, you can use pancetta or bacon as alternatives.

Can I grill prosciutto wrapped asparagus instead?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus is a simple yet elegant dish that will bring joy to your table. It’s an easy favorite for gatherings, and its deliciousness will keep you coming back for more. So grab your ingredients and let the cooking begin!

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