Prosciutto wrapped asparagus is a tasty treat that combines salty, thin slices of prosciutto with crisp, fresh asparagus. It’s elegant but super easy to make!
These skewers are a hit at parties—they disappear fast! I love how the salty prosciutto makes the asparagus so flavorful. Perfect as a snack or appetizer when friends come over!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus spears are key for a crisp texture. If asparagus isn’t available, green beans or zucchini sticks can work as great alternatives, but adjust roast time based on thickness.
Prosciutto: Using prosciutto adds an amazing flavor. If you want a similar salty kick, try using bacon or turkey bacon, but keep in mind the cooking time might change.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil works best for its flavor. If you’re out, avocado oil is another healthy option that maintains a nice taste without affecting the dish much.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a cheesy touch. You can swap with Pecorino or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, adding a unique flavor twist!
How Do I Properly Prepare Asparagus for Roasting?
Preparing asparagus properly is crucial. To start, wash the spears well to remove any dirt or grit. Then, trim off the woody ends—this is typically about 1-2 inches at the bottom. You can either snap them off, which is the natural break point, or cut them with a knife. This ensures you get a tender piece to wrap.
- After trimming, pat the asparagus dry to help the olive oil stick better.
- Don’t skip on tossing them in olive oil; this helps with roasting and flavor distribution.
- Make sure they are in a single layer on the baking sheet—this helps them cook evenly.
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus (about 12-15 spears)
- 6-8 slices of prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Lemon zest or lemon wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to roast in the oven, making it a quick and elegant dish that can be ready in around 25-30 minutes in total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will help make cleanup a breeze later!
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Next, wash the asparagus under cool running water. Trim the woody ends by snapping them off, which is usually about 1-2 inches from the bottom. This step is important for getting tender, tasty spears!
3. Season the Asparagus:
In a bowl, drizzle the cleaned asparagus with olive oil and toss them gently so they’re evenly coated. Then, sprinkle in some freshly ground black pepper. Remember, prosciutto is salty, so you probably won’t need any extra salt!
4. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Now, take each halved slice of prosciutto and wrap it around a small bundle of 2-3 asparagus spears. Start wrapping at the bottom near the base of the asparagus and spiral upward. This way, you get a nice, even coat of prosciutto around each bundle. Repeat this for all of the asparagus spears!
5. Arrange and Roast:
Place the prosciutto-wrapped bundles on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly. Pop the sheet into the oven and roast for about 12-15 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
6. Serve Up Your Dish:
Once they’re done roasting, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Transfer the asparagus bundles to a serving platter. For an extra special touch, feel free to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top or add a bit of lemon zest for a pop of flavor. You can also serve lemon wedges on the side if you like!
Enjoy your savory and elegant Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus as a delicious appetizer or an impressive side dish!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus for This Recipe?
Fresh asparagus is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but if you’re using frozen asparagus, make sure to thaw and pat it dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a better crispiness when roasting.
What Can I Substitute for Prosciutto?
If you don’t have prosciutto, you can use bacon or turkey bacon as a substitute. Just note that cooking time may vary; bacon may take a bit longer to crisp up, while turkey bacon might cook quicker, so keep an eye on it!
How Do I Store Leftover Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus?
Store any leftover prosciutto-wrapped asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warm. This will help keep the prosciutto crispy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus ahead of time! Simply wrap the asparagus and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to a few hours. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before roasting.
