Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto: A Springtime Treat

Easter meals often highlight spring’s freshness. This Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto recipe is perfect.

It’s both luxurious and quick to make. The asparagus and prosciutto create a delicious balance.

This dish is great for any occasion. Serve it as an appetizer, side, or buffet item. Here’s how to make it.

Health Benefits I Love

This dish is packed with nutrients. Asparagus has antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins like K and folate. The prosciutto adds protein and healthy fats. It’s also gluten-free and low-carb.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (about 5 bundles) has:

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 8g (mostly from prosciutto)
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

This dish is low-carb, gluten-free, and full of vitamins.

Occasion

It’s perfect for Easter brunch, Mother’s Day, bridal showers, or spring gatherings.

Cost

Cost: Moderate (10–15 for premium ingredients)

Enjoy spring with this elegant appetizer! Asparagus and prosciutto make a light yet indulgent dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for 4 servings:

• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus (about 20–25 spears), trimmed
• 8 slices of high-quality prosciutto (thinly sliced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for garnish)
• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for drizzling)
• Fresh parsley leaves , chopped (for garnish)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Use parchment paper or grease the baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus

Wash the asparagus under cold water and dry it. Trim the ends with a sharp knife. If the stalks are thick, peel the bottom third with a peeler.

Step 3: Wrap the Asparagus

Place two spears parallel and a slice of prosciutto over them. Roll the asparagus until it’s fully wrapped. Repeat for all spears.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Put the bundles seam-side down on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Roast Until Golden

Pop the tray into the preheated oven and roast for 12–15 minutes. The prosciutto should turn slightly crispy, and the asparagus tender but firm. Avoid overcooking, as asparagus can quickly turn mushy.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Once done, remove the tray from the oven and let it cool for a minute. For an extra burst of brightness, squeeze a little lemon juice over the bundles and sprinkle with lemon zest. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Useful Tips

1. Choose thinner asparagus spears for easier wrapping.
2. Opt for high-quality prosciutto—it makes a world of difference in flavor.
3. To save time, prep the bundles ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Check out this recipe: Lamb Roast with Garlic and Rosemary: A Flavorful Easter Delight

Additional Information

• Level of Difficulty: Easy—this recipe requires minimal effort and no advanced culinary skills. Even beginners can master it!
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Portion: 4 servings (approximately 5 bundles per serving)

Equipment I Use

To make this dish, I rely on a few basic tools:

• A baking sheet (my go-to for roasting anything crispy).
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray—I prefer parchment because it makes cleanup a breeze.
• A vegetable peeler, which comes in handy if I’m working with thicker asparagus stalks.
• A sharp knife and cutting board for trimming the asparagus ends.

Nothing fancy here—just simple, everyday kitchen gear that most home cooks already have.

Special Care I Take

When making this dish, I pay close attention to two things:

1. Don’t overcook the asparagus. I want it to be tender but crisp enough to hold its shape. Overcooking not only dulls its vibrant green color but also turns it mushy.
2. Watch the prosciutto closely. Prosciutto can go from golden and crispy to burnt in a matter of seconds, so I keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of roasting.

Taking these small precautions ensures that every bite is as delicious as it should be.

Recipe Variations

While I love the classic combination of asparagus and prosciutto, I enjoy experimenting with variations to keep things interesting. Here are a few ideas I’ve tried:

1. Add Cheese: Sometimes, I place a thin slice of mozzarella or brie on the asparagus before wrapping it in prosciutto. The cheese melts beautifully during roasting, adding a creamy element that complements the salty ham.
2. Switch Up the Veggie: If asparagus isn’t in season, I use green beans or even baby carrots instead. They work just as well and add variety to my meal rotation.
3. Sweet and Savory Twist: For a unique flavor profile, I brush the bundles lightly with honey or maple syrup before baking. It creates a delightful contrast between the sweetness and the saltiness of the prosciutto.
4. Herb Infusion: Occasionally, I sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary over the bundles before roasting. It adds an aromatic touch that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality levels.

Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly

I like to add side dishes that balance the flavors and textures of this dish. Here are my go-to choices:

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta, and lemon vinaigrette is a great match. It complements the prosciutto without overpowering it.
2. Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or ciabatta is perfect for soaking up juices. You won’t want to miss a single drop!
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes with garlic and rosemary are a hearty choice. They’re great for brunch.
4. Spring Greens Salad: A simple arugula salad with olive oil, lemon juice, and Parmesan is refreshing. It cuts through the saltiness of the prosciutto.

Presentation Tips

Food should look as good as it tastes. Here’s how I make this dish visually stunning:

1. Garnish Generously: I sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the bundles for color. Sometimes, I add lemon zest for extra brightness.
2. Use a Rustic Platter: I arrange the bundles on a wooden board or slate platter. It adds an artisanal touch.
3. Lemon Wedges for Contrast: I place lemon wedges around the plate. They look inviting and add zing when squeezed.
4. Create Height: I stack the bundles slightly or prop them against each other. It adds dimension and makes the dish look more dynamic.

By focusing on these details, the dish looks as impressive as it tastes. It’s perfect for Easter brunch or a casual dinner party. My guests are always wowed by the presentation.

Final Sentence

Transforming simple ingredients into an exquisite dish is magical. It reminds me why I love cooking.