These prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears are a fun and tasty treat! The salty prosciutto pairs perfectly with the crunchy asparagus, making each bite a delight.
They’re super easy to make and are great as a snack or a fancy appetizer. I love serving these at parties—you’ll be surprised at how quickly they disappear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is the star here. It’s best if you select firm, bright green spears. If asparagus isn’t available, green beans or zucchini sticks can work as great alternatives for wrapping.
Prosciutto: This gives a salty kick to the dish. If prosciutto is hard to find, try using bacon or turkey bacon for a different flavor. Just remember that bacon will take longer to crisp up in the oven.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but feel free to substitute with avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer an added richness. You could even use a flavored oil for a twist!
Garlic: This is optional but adds great depth. If you’re not a fan of fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a quick substitute. Just use a pinch to keep the flavor balanced.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds delicious umami. If you don’t have any, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option!
How Do I Get the Prosciutto Crispy?
Getting that crispy prosciutto texture is key for this recipe. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure the prosciutto is thinly sliced, as thicker slices may not crisp up well.
- Wrap snugly around each spear but not too tight, allowing some air to circulate.
- Brush or drizzle a bit of olive oil over the tops before roasting to encourage browning.
- Keep an eye on them as they roast – they should take about 12-15 minutes, but ovens can vary.
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12-15 spears)
- 6-8 slices prosciutto (thinly sliced, halved lengthwise)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 10 minutes to prepare and about 12-15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25-30 minutes. It’s super quick and perfect for a delicious appetizer or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To make cleanup easier, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Wash the asparagus well under cold water. Then, trim the tough ends of each spear by cutting off about 1-2 inches from the bottom. This helps make them more tender to eat.
3. Add Flavor:
Pat the asparagus dry with a kitchen towel. If you like, toss the spears in a bowl with olive oil, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and minced garlic (if using). This adds a delicious flavor!
4. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Take one slice of prosciutto and carefully wrap it around each asparagus spear. Start just below the tip and spiral down until the spear is mostly covered. Make sure it’s wrapped snugly!
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the wrapped asparagus spears on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Be sure they don’t overlap, so they cook evenly.
6. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Drizzle a little olive oil over the tops of the wrapped asparagus or use a brush to spread it evenly. This helps them get nice and crispy.
7. Roast in the Oven:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast for about 12-15 minutes. They’re done when the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy—yummy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they are done, take them out of the oven and transfer the asparagus to a serving plate. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top. You can serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh zesty flavor.
9. Enjoy:
Serve warm as a delightful appetizer or a side dish. Enjoy your delicious Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh asparagus for the best texture and flavor. However, if you only have frozen asparagus, make sure to thaw and drain it completely before wrapping it with prosciutto. You may need to reduce cooking time slightly since it will be pre-cooked from freezing.
What Can I Substitute for Prosciutto?
If you don’t have prosciutto, you can use bacon or even turkey bacon as a substitute. Just note that bacon will take longer to cook until crispy, so adjust your roasting time accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through, which will help keep the prosciutto crispy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus up to an hour in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to roast. Just let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking, so it cooks evenly.
