This dish features fresh asparagus stalks wrapped in savory prosciutto, creating a perfect blend of flavors. It’s a simple and tasty way to make veggies exciting!
These tasty bundles are great as a snack or appetizer. Trust me, they vanish quickly at parties! 🌟 Don’t be surprised if you find yourself sneaking a couple before serving!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds crunch and a mild taste. If asparagus is out of season, you could use green beans as an alternative. They also wrap nicely and taste great with prosciutto.
Prosciutto: This salty, thinly sliced ham gives the dish its unique flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, you could use bacon or speck. Just remember bacon will take longer to cook until crispy.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a nice touch of umami flavor. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, try using nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative to keep things aligned with your dietary needs.
How Do You Get the Prosciutto Crispy Without Overcooking the Asparagus?
The key to getting crispy prosciutto while keeping your asparagus tender is all about timing and oven temperature. Start by wrapping the asparagus tightly to help it hold its shape during cooking.
- Preheat your oven properly to ensure even cooking.
- Use thin slices of prosciutto for quick crisping. This will also reduce cooking time.
- Roast the wrapped asparagus at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes. Check at the 10-minute mark to avoid overdoing it.
Let them cool for just a minute before serving, and trust me, they’ll be a hit!
How to Make Delicious Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch (about 12-16) fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
- 8-12 slices thinly sliced prosciutto, halved lengthwise if large
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 12-15 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when the asparagus goes in! This ensures that the prosciutto gets crispy while cooking.
2. Prepare Your Asparagus:
Next, wash your asparagus under cool water. Trim off the tough, woody ends by snapping them off. They should break naturally at the right spot!
3. Wrap the Asparagus:
Now, take a spear of asparagus and carefully wrap it with a slice of prosciutto. Start at the tip and spiral the prosciutto around until you reach the base, overlapping slightly as you go. This will hold everything together while it cooks.
4. Arrange for Baking:
Place the wrapped asparagus onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This keeps things tidy and makes cleanup a breeze!
5. Season Your Wrapped Asparagus:
Drizzle olive oil over the wrapped spears. This helps them crisp up even more! Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and some freshly ground black pepper over the top for added flavor.
6. Roast in the Oven:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and when the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto looks crispy, it’s time to take them out!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Sprinkle the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve with lemon wedges on the side, if you like. Squeeze a little lemon over each piece for an extra zing!
Enjoy your delicious Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus as an elegant appetizer or side dish! They’re sure to impress your family and friends.
Can I Use Different Types of Vegetables?
Absolutely! While asparagus is classic, you can substitute with green beans, zucchini, or baby carrots. Just adjust the cooking time as some vegetables may cook faster or slower than asparagus.
How Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prepare the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus ahead of time, cover them tightly, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover prosciutto-wrapped asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes to help restore their crispness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour. Just ensure your prosciutto and any other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
