These prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears are a perfect match of crispy and savory! The salty prosciutto gives a delightful crunch to each bite, while the tender asparagus stays fresh and lively.
They’re super easy to make – just wrap and roast! I love serving them as a fancy appetizer that feels special but is still quick to whip up for guests. Trust me, they’ll vanish fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for this dish. Look for bright green, firm spears. If asparagus isn’t available, consider thin green beans or zucchini strips for a similar enjoyably crunchy texture.
Prosciutto: This ham adds a salty flavor and crispy texture. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use thinly sliced bacon or even turkey breast for a lighter option, but adjust cooking times as needed.
Cheese: Cream cheese or goat cheese adds creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a dairy-free cream cheese or simply skip it; the dish will still be delicious without the cheese!
Olive Oil: This helps crisp up the prosciutto. You can replace it with avocado oil or melted butter for a different flavor, but olive oil works best for this dish.
How Can I Get the Asparagus Perfectly Tender Without Overcooking?
To get asparagus that’s tender but still crisp, timing is everything! When roasting, try this method:
- Peel and trim the asparagus, giving them a fresh cut before wrapping.
- Wrap the asparagus tightly but not too loose, ensuring the prosciutto creates a good seal in the oven.
- Roast at 400°F for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them bright green and just fork-tender.
Using a quick timing check will help you achieve that perfect bite! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
How to Make Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12 spears), trimmed
- 6 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or goat cheese (optional, for spreading inside prosciutto)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to roast, totaling around 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to ensure your prosciutto gets crispy and your asparagus cooks properly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup later.
2. Preparing the Asparagus:
Rinse your asparagus thoroughly under cold water to clean them. Trim off the woody ends, about 1-2 inches from the bottom, as they’re tough to eat. Pat the spears dry with a towel. This helps the prosciutto stick better!
3. Spreading the Cheese:
If you’re using cheese, take each half slice of prosciutto and spread a thin layer of cream cheese or goat cheese on it. This step is optional, but it’s a delicious addition that creates a nice creamy texture.
4. Wrapping the Asparagus:
Now it’s time to wrap! Take one asparagus spear and place it at the end of a prosciutto slice. Start wrapping from just below the tip and spiral the prosciutto down to the bottom end of the spear. Make sure it’s wrapped fairly tightly to keep everything together during roasting.
5. Preparing for Roasting:
Place all your wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil lightly over them, making sure each bundle gets a bit of oil for that crispy finish. Sprinkle a little salt and freshly ground black pepper on top, but remember that prosciutto is salty, so don’t overdo it!
6. Roasting:
Pop them into your preheated oven and roast for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the prosciutto to turn perfectly crispy while the asparagus remains vibrant and tender!
7. Serving:
Take the baking sheet out of the oven and transfer the wrapped spears to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely touch of color. Serve warm and watch your guests enjoy this delightful dish!
Enjoy the delicious combination of crispy salty prosciutto and fresh roasted asparagus!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus for This Recipe?
While fresh asparagus is best for flavor and texture, you can use frozen asparagus. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before wrapping to avoid excess moisture during roasting.
What Can I Substitute for Prosciutto?
If you don’t have prosciutto, thinly sliced bacon or turkey bacon work well, though they may require longer cooking times for crisping. You can also try a plant-based deli meat for a vegetarian option, but the flavor will change slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For reheating, place them in a hot oven for a few minutes to regain the crispiness of the prosciutto.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the asparagus wrapped in prosciutto and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking.
