Prosciutto wrapped asparagus is a tasty and simple appetizer. The crispy prosciutto brings a salty crunch to the tender asparagus, creating a lovely bite!
Whenever I make these, I feel like a gourmet chef! They are quick to make and always impress my guests, even if I’m just wearing my pajamas while cooking! 😄
I love serving them warm right out of the oven. They’re great with a dip or just on their own—perfect for snacking or sharing at parties!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for this dish, bringing a crisp texture and bright flavor. If asparagus isn’t available, try green beans or zucchini for a similar effect.
Prosciutto: This Italian dry-cured ham adds a salty punch. If it’s hard to find or if you want a healthier option, turkey bacon or regular bacon can work, but keep in mind the flavor will change a bit.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to crisp up the prosciutto and adds flavor. Avocado oil or melted butter are good alternatives, each bringing unique tastes.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper enhances the flavor. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely.
Garlic Powder & Lemon Zest: Both add extra flavor. For garlic lovers, fresh minced garlic could replace garlic powder. For a citrus kick, lime zest can also substitute lemon zest.
How Do I Wrap Asparagus with Prosciutto Effectively?
Wrapping asparagus with prosciutto may feel tricky, but it’s simple once you know how! Start by holding the asparagus in one hand and the prosciutto in the other.
- Begin wrapping the prosciutto near the bottom of the asparagus, overlapping slightly as you spiral up towards the tip.
- Use one slice for every one to two stalks, depending on thickness.
- Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect; the oven will crisp it up!
Practice makes it easier, so just roll with it! This step adds a delicious touch to the final product.
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Asparagus:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 pound)
- 8-10 slices of prosciutto
For Flavoring:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest (optional)
- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 12-15 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need around 25-30 minutes to have this delicious dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating and Preparing the Asparagus:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, take your fresh asparagus and trim off the tough ends. Give them a good rinse under cold water to clean them, and then pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Wrapping with Prosciutto:
Now it’s time to make these tasty! Take a slice of prosciutto and start wrapping it around each asparagus stalk. Begin at the bottom and spiral your way up to the tip. You can use one slice to wrap one to two asparagus stalks, depending on how much prosciutto you like!
3. Preparing for Baking:
Once all your asparagus is wrapped, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle your olive oil over the wrapped asparagus. Then, sprinkle with black pepper to add some flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also add a little garlic powder and lemon zest for a tasty twist!
4. Baking Time:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’re looking for the asparagus to be tender and the prosciutto to get nice and crispy.
5. Serving the Dish:
After baking, carefully remove the asparagus from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. If you want to make it extra special, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving. Enjoy these warm as a delightful appetizer or a tasty side dish!
Can I Use Bacon Instead of Prosciutto?
Absolutely! Bacon can be a delicious substitute for prosciutto. Just keep in mind that bacon will take a bit longer to cook until crispy. You might need to extend the baking time to about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is cooked through and crispy.
How Do I Know When the Asparagus is Done?
The asparagus will be tender when pierced with a fork, and the prosciutto should be crispy and slightly browned. If the asparagus is still firm after 15 minutes, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on the prosciutto to make sure it doesn’t burn!
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can wrap the asparagus in prosciutto a few hours in advance! Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, simply drizzle with olive oil and season just before putting them in the oven.
How to Store Leftover Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, arrange the asparagus on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the wrapping might lose some crunch.
