Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus is a tasty and elegant dish. It features fresh asparagus spears wrapped in salty, thin slices of prosciutto. A perfect appetizer for any gathering!
These little bundles are always a hit at parties! I love how easy they are to make—just wrap and bake. Plus, they look fancy without too much fuss. Who doesn’t love a veggie that feels special? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for this dish. Look for firm, bright green spears. If you can’t find asparagus, green beans or wrapped zucchini could be a great substitute.
Prosciutto: This salty Italian ham gives a fantastic flavor to the dish. If you need a substitute, thinly sliced bacon works but will need longer to cook. Make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly!
Olive Oil: Olive oil brings richness. If you prefer a different flavor, avocado oil or melted butter can be great alternatives for drizzling.
Garlic Powder: For a little extra flavor, garlic powder is optional but really enhances the taste. If you love garlic, feel free to add minced fresh garlic instead.
How to Ensure Perfectly Roasted Asparagus?
Getting the roasting just right makes all the difference! Roasting asparagus allows it to caramelize and develop a lovely flavor.
- Trim the asparagus ends to avoid tough bites, then make sure they’re well dried after washing for even cooking.
- Drizzling with olive oil not only helps with flavor but also prevents sticking. Roll the spears in the oil for even coverage!
- Watch the cooking time! Start checking around 10 minutes to prevent overcooking. You want them tender but crisp!
Delicious Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12-15 spears)
- 6-8 slices prosciutto, cut in half lengthwise
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste (optional, as prosciutto is salty)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and an additional 12-15 minutes to roast in the oven. So, you’ll be enjoying your tasty appetizer in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to roast the asparagus to perfection!
2. Prepare the Asparagus
Wash the fresh asparagus and trim off the tough ends, about 1-2 inches. This will help ensure your bites are tender and delicious! Pat the asparagus dry with a paper towel.
3. Add Some Flavor
Drizzle the asparagus lightly with olive oil or use a brush to coat them. This helps them roast beautifully. If you like, sprinkle a little garlic powder over them for extra flavor.
4. Wrap with Prosciutto
Take half a slice of prosciutto and wrap it around 2-3 asparagus spears, starting just below the tips and working your way down the stalk. The prosciutto should cover most of the asparagus to keep it secure while cooking.
5. Arrange and Roast
Lay the wrapped asparagus bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Pop them in the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes. You want the asparagus to be tender but still crisp and the prosciutto crispy on the edges.
6. Serve It Up!
Once done, take them out of the oven and transfer the warm bundles to a serving plate. If you’d like, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of black pepper for a final touch.
Enjoy your simple yet elegant Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus as a fabulous appetizer or side dish! 😋
Can I Use Different Meats Instead of Prosciutto?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use thinly sliced bacon, pancetta, or turkey or chicken breast for a lighter option. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, especially with bacon.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the asparagus wrapped in prosciutto a few hours in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Wrapped Asparagus?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus?
While fresh asparagus yields the best results, you can use frozen if needed. Just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before wrapping to avoid excess moisture that can make them soggy while cooking.
