Prosciutto wrapped asparagus is a tasty treat that’s easy to make! The salty prosciutto pairs perfectly with the crunchy asparagus, making a snack or appetizer that’s hard to resist.
When I make these, I sometimes add a sprinkle of parmesan for a little extra flavor. They disappear quickly, so be prepared to share—or not! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is essential for this dish. Look for bright green, firm spears. If you can’t find asparagus, green beans or zucchini can make a great substitute. Just keep the cooking time in mind, as they may need adjustments.
Prosciutto: This salty Italian ham is perfect for wrapping, but you can use bacon or pancetta as alternatives. They have a different flavor, but still add that nice crispy texture when cooked.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for drizzling. If you need an alternative, any light oil like avocado or grapeseed oil will work well too. They all help achieve a nice, golden finish.
Parmesan cheese: I love adding Parmesan for extra flavor! If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can add a nice depth too.
How Do I Make Sure the Prosciutto Gets Crispy?
Crispy prosciutto is crucial for the best texture. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to use thinly sliced prosciutto, as thick slices won’t crisp up well.
- Bake at the right temperature (400°F) for a balance of cooking the asparagus without overcooking the prosciutto.
- If you’re struggling for crispness, you can place them under the broiler for a minute or two at the end. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12-15 spears)
- 6 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese or lemon zest for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 12-15 minutes to bake in the oven. In total, you can have these tasty treats ready in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This will make cleanup a breeze later!
2. Prepare the Asparagus
Give the asparagus a good wash, making sure to remove any dirt. Then, trim off the tough woody ends, which is usually about 1 to 2 inches from the bottom. This will help each bite be tender and tasty.
3. Bundle Up
Now, take the asparagus and group them into small bundles of 2-3 spears. This makes wrapping them with prosciutto easier and more uniform.
4. Season and Wrap
Drizzle or brush a little olive oil over the asparagus bundles. This will help everything roast beautifully! Sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper for added flavor—remember, you may not need salt since prosciutto is already salty. Then, take a slice of halved prosciutto and wrap it around each asparagus bundle, starting from the bottom and spiraling it up until it’s fully wrapped. The prosciutto should cling nicely!
5. Arrange and Bake
Place the wrapped asparagus bundles in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Slide them into the oven and let them bake for about 12-15 minutes. You want the asparagus to be tender and the prosciutto to get a bit crispy.
6. Finish and Serve
Once they’re out of the oven, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan or a bit of lemon zest over the top for a fresh finishing touch. Serve warm, and enjoy this savory, crisp-tender treat as a fantastic appetizer or side dish!
Enjoy your prosciutto wrapped asparagus! They’re always a hit!
Can I Use Thick Asparagus Spears for This Recipe?
While you can use thicker asparagus, they may require a longer cooking time to become tender. Keep an eye on them while baking, and you may need to add a few extra minutes if they’re particularly thick.
What Can I Use Instead of Prosciutto?
If you don’t have prosciutto, bacon or pancetta makes a great alternative! Just note that bacon might have a slightly different cooking time, so you may want to cook them a bit longer to ensure they’re crispy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain their crispiness!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the asparagus bundles a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
