As the aroma of crispy prosciutto wafts through the air, your taste buds will tingle with anticipation. These delightful Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus spears are not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
Picture yourself at a sunny picnic, surrounded by friends and laughter, when this elegant appetizer makes its grand entrance. With each bite, you experience the savory crunch of prosciutto enveloping tender asparagus, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your tongue. You can enjoy this dish during celebrations or casual weeknight dinners; it truly fits every occasion. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make appetizer combines rich, savory flavors with vibrant green asparagus for a stunning presentation
- It takes only minutes to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion
- The crispy prosciutto brings a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the tender asparagus
- Enjoy it as an appetizer or snack that impresses guests and family alike
I remember the first time I served these at a dinner party; my friends couldn’t stop raving about them, and I felt like a culinary genius!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Asparagus: Choose firm, bright green asparagus for maximum flavor and crunch. Look for spears that are similar in thickness.
- Prosciutto: Opt for thinly sliced prosciutto; its salty richness beautifully complements the fresh asparagus.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors and helps in crisping up the prosciutto.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds just the right amount of spice without overpowering the dish.
- Lemon Zest (Optional): A touch of lemon zest brightens up the flavors and adds freshness to each bite.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly while you prepare your ingredients.
Prepare the asparagus: Rinse and trim off the woody ends of each asparagus spear. They should be tender yet crisp to maintain their texture when wrapped.
Wrap with prosciutto: Take one slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each asparagus spear from tip to base. Overlapping slightly allows for even coverage; plus, who doesn’t love more prosciutto?
Drizzle with olive oil: Place your wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Bake until crispy: Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them because nobody likes burnt offerings!
Serve and enjoy: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. You can garnish with lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor if desired.
Now you’re ready to impress everyone at your next gathering with these delightful Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus! Enjoy this simple yet elegant dish that is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.
You Must Know
- Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus is a delightful appetizer that combines savory and crunchy textures, making it perfect for gatherings
- The aroma of prosciutto crisping in the oven will have your guests knocking down the door
- Quick to prepare, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For best results, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap asparagus with prosciutto and bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor. You can also swap asparagus for green beans or zucchini.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover prosciutto wrapped asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for optimal taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When selecting asparagus, look for firm stalks with tightly closed tips for the best flavor
- Avoid overlapped prosciutto when wrapping; it should be snug but not crowded
- A little olive oil brushed before baking enhances crispiness and flavor significantly
Sharing this dish brings back memories of my first dinner party where my friends devoured these bites before I even had a chance to grab one!
FAQ
Can I use bacon instead of prosciutto?
Yes, bacon is a delicious alternative but will require longer cooking time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Prosciutto wrapped asparagus is naturally gluten-free and safe for celiac diets.
How do I know when it’s done cooking?
The prosciutto should be crispy, and asparagus tender but firm.
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus is a stunning appetizer that combines the savory crunch of crispy prosciutto with tender asparagus spears. Perfect for gatherings or casual dinners, this dish is quick and easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with friends and family. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a visually appealing and delicious treat that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus (about 20 spears)
- 8 oz thinly sliced prosciutto
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse and trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears.
- Wrap each asparagus spear with one slice of prosciutto from tip to base, slightly overlapping the slices.
- Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the prosciutto is golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with lemon zest if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 wrapped spears (85g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 30mg