Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together tender, crisp asparagus spears wrapped in salty, flavorful prosciutto. The contrast between the fresh green veggies and the savory…
Tip: save now, cook later.Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together tender, crisp asparagus spears wrapped in salty, flavorful prosciutto. The contrast between the fresh green veggies and the savory ham makes for a tasty bite that’s both light and satisfying.
I love making this when I want a quick appetizer that feels special but doesn’t take much effort. The prosciutto crisps up just enough when baked, adding a nice texture that pairs perfectly with the softness of the asparagus. It’s one of those recipes where a few ingredients come together for a big flavor punch.
My favorite way to serve this is right out of the oven while it’s still warm, maybe with a squeeze of lemon on top for a little brightness. It’s great at gatherings because everyone can grab a piece, and it’s always a hit. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak some veggies into the mix without anyone noticing how healthy it is!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for its crisp texture and bright flavor. Choose firm, vibrant green spears with closed tips. If you can’t find asparagus, green beans or broccolini make good substitutes.
Prosciutto: The salty, thinly sliced ham adds amazing flavor and crisps nicely when baked. If you want a vegetarian option, try using thin slices of smoked eggplant or a flavorful vegan deli meat.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a lovely salty, nutty touch. You can swap with Pecorino Romano or Asiago, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free topping.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the whole dish. If lemon isn’t handy, a splash of white wine vinegar or a few drops of balsamic vinegar can work too.
How Do You Wrap and Cook Asparagus Without It Falling Apart?
Wrapping asparagus with prosciutto can sometimes be tricky if the asparagus is too thick or too wet. Here’s what helps:
- Dry asparagus well. Pat dry with a towel after rinsing to help prosciutto stick better.
- Choose thinner spears. Thicker spears are harder to wrap and may not cook evenly.
- Use small bundles. Wrap 2-3 spears per slice of prosciutto to keep it secure.
- Wrap tightly but gently. Don’t rip the prosciutto; wrap steadily from bottom to tip to hold asparagus in place.
- Bake on a lined sheet. A non-stick surface prevents sticking and keeps the wrapping intact.
- Watch the baking time. About 10-15 minutes at 400°F is usually enough to crisp prosciutto and cook asparagus tender-crisp.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for roasting the asparagus evenly and keeping the prosciutto crispy.
- Parchment paper or foil – makes cleanup a breeze and stops sticking.
- Tongs – help you turn asparagus bundles easily without unwrapping them.
- Grater – for sprinkling fresh Parmesan cheese right over the hot asparagus.
- Knife and cutting board – for trimming asparagus and slicing prosciutto neatly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap prosciutto with bacon for a smokier flavor and crispier texture.
- Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before baking for a little heat.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the wrapped asparagus after baking for a touch of sweetness.
- Tuck in a thin slice of mozzarella or goat cheese inside the prosciutto for a creamy surprise.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Asparagus Wrap:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12-15 spears)
- 6-8 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving and Topping:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking combined. It’s a quick dish to assemble and bake, perfect as a fast appetizer or side.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prep the Asparagus:
Rinse the asparagus under cold water. Snap off the woody ends by gently bending each spear near its base until it breaks naturally. Pat them dry well with a towel — this helps the prosciutto stick better.
3. Wrap the Asparagus:
Group 2 to 3 asparagus spears together. Take a half slice of prosciutto and wrap it tightly around the bottom part of the asparagus bunch, spiraling toward the top.
4. Season and Roast:
Place your prosciutto-wrapped asparagus bundles on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil evenly over them, then lightly season with salt (remember the prosciutto is salty!) and freshly ground black pepper.
Bake in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until the asparagus is tender but not mushy, and the prosciutto looks crispy around the edges.
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the asparagus from the oven. While still hot, sprinkle on the grated Parmesan cheese so it melts slightly. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a bit of a spicy kick. Enjoy your elegant and delicious prosciutto-wrapped asparagus!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh asparagus for this dish to get that crisp texture and vibrant flavor. If you only have frozen, thaw it completely and pat it very dry before wrapping to avoid sogginess.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the prosciutto crispy rather than microwaving, which can make it soggy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can wrap the asparagus in prosciutto a few hours before baking and keep it chilled. Just bake them right before serving for the crispiest results.
What Can I Serve with Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus?
This pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or as part of a larger appetizer spread. A light salad or some crusty bread would complement it well too!