Name: Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh asparagus, thick spears preferred; 8 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling); Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat); Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus: the elegant appetizer that disappears in minutes! Have you ever needed a dish that's both incredibly simple to make and undeniably impressive? Look no further. This delightful combination of salty, savory prosciutto and tender, slightly sweet asparagus is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from casual gatherings to sophisticated dinner parties.

While the exact origins of wrapping vegetables in cured meats are difficult to pinpoint, the practice itself is rooted in centuries of culinary tradition. Think of the classic Italian antipasto platters, showcasing the art of preserving and enhancing simple ingredients. Prosciutto, with its delicate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, has long been a staple in Italian cuisine, and its pairing with asparagus is a testament to the beauty of complementary flavors.

People adore prosciutto wrapped asparagus for its incredible balance of tastes and textures. The salty, rich prosciutto crisps up beautifully in the oven, providing a delightful contrast to the tender, slightly grassy asparagus. It's a dish that's both satisfying and light, making it the perfect starter or side. Plus, let's be honest, it looks absolutely gorgeous on a platter! And the best part? It requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. So, let's get started and create this culinary masterpiece together!

Ingredients:

1 pound fresh asparagus, thick spears preferred
8 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Asparagus:

Wash the asparagus thoroughly. Rinse the asparagus spears under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Pay special attention to the tips, as they tend to trap more debris.
Snap off the tough ends. Hold each asparagus spear near the base and gently bend it. The spear will naturally snap at the point where the tough, woody part begins. Discard the tough ends. This ensures that you're only cooking the tender, edible portion of the asparagus.
Dry the asparagus. Pat the asparagus spears dry with paper towels. This is important because excess moisture can prevent the prosciutto from crisping up properly in the oven.

Wrapping the Asparagus:

Prepare the prosciutto slices. Lay the prosciutto slices on a clean cutting board. If the slices are very long, you can cut them in half lengthwise to make them easier to work with. This also helps to ensure that the prosciutto is evenly distributed around the asparagus.
Wrap each asparagus spear. Take one asparagus spear and wrap a slice of prosciutto around it, starting near the tip and working your way down towards the base. Overlap the prosciutto slightly as you wrap to ensure that the asparagus is fully covered. If the prosciutto slice is too short to cover the entire spear, use another small piece to finish wrapping.
Repeat for all asparagus spears. Continue wrapping each asparagus spear with prosciutto until all the asparagus is wrapped. Arrange the wrapped asparagus spears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The parchment paper will prevent the asparagus from sticking to the baking sheet and make cleanup easier.

Cooking the Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus:

Preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure the oven is fully preheated before you put the asparagus in, as this will help the prosciutto to crisp up quickly.
Drizzle with olive oil. Drizzle the wrapped asparagus spears with olive oil. Use a pastry brush or your fingers to ensure that the asparagus is evenly coated with oil. The olive oil will help the prosciutto to crisp up and add flavor to the asparagus.
Season with pepper and red pepper flakes (optional). Sprinkle the asparagus with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired. Be careful not to over-season, as the prosciutto is already quite salty.
Bake the asparagus. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the asparagus spears and the temperature of your oven. Keep a close eye on the asparagus to prevent it from burning.
Check for doneness. To check if the asparagus is done, pierce a spear with a fork. It should be tender-crisp, meaning it's slightly firm but easily pierced. The prosciutto should be crispy and golden brown.

Serving the Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus:

Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Once the asparagus is cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the asparagus cool for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze (optional). If desired, drizzle the asparagus with balsamic glaze. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the salty prosciutto and earthy asparagus.
Serve immediately. Serve the prosciutto wrapped asparagus immediately while it's still warm and crispy.
Garnish with lemon wedges (optional). Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, refreshing flavor to the dish.

Tips and Variations:

Use different types of prosciutto. Experiment with different types of prosciutto, such as prosciutto di Parma or prosciutto San Daniele, to find your favorite flavor.
Add cheese. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano cheese over the asparagus before baking for a cheesy twist.
Wrap with bacon. Substitute bacon for prosciutto for a smoky flavor. Be sure to use thin-cut bacon so it crisps up properly.
Grill the asparagus. Grill the wrapped asparagus over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
Add garlic. Mince a clove of garlic and mix it with the olive oil before drizzling it over the asparagus for a garlicky flavor.
Make it spicy. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the olive oil for a spicy kick.
Serve as an appetizer or side dish. Prosciutto wrapped asparagus can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as part of a main course.
Pair with a dipping sauce. Serve with a dipping sauce such as aioli, pesto, or a simple vinaigrette.
Make it ahead of time. You can wrap the asparagus with prosciutto ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. Just add a few minutes to the cooking time.
Use different vegetables. Try wrapping other vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, with prosciutto.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Calories: 150-200
Fat: 10-15g
Saturated Fat: 3-5g
Cholesterol: 30-40mg
Sodium: 500-700mg
Carbohydrates: 5-7g
Fiber: 2-3g
Sugar: 1-2g
Protein: 8-10g

Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe is a winner because it's incredibly simple, quick to prepare, and delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. The salty, savory prosciutto perfectly complements the slightly bitter asparagus, creating a harmonious balance of tastes and textures. The olive oil adds richness and helps the prosciutto crisp up beautifully, while the optional balsamic glaze provides a touch of sweetness and acidity that elevates the dish to another level. Whether you're looking for a sophisticated appetizer for a dinner party or a healthy and delicious side dish for a weeknight meal, this prosciutto wrapped asparagus is sure to impress. The combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients and minimal preparation makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Plus, it's naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. The versatility of this recipe also allows for endless customization, so you can easily adapt it to your own preferences and tastes.

Conclusion:

This Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus recipe isn't just another side dish; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The salty, savory prosciutto perfectly complements the fresh, slightly grassy asparagus, creating a delightful contrast that will tantalize your taste buds. It's incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making it a weeknight winner or an elegant addition to any special occasion. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. But why is this recipe a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, it's the versatility that truly shines. It's a fantastic way to elevate a simple vegetable into something truly special. It's also a great way to introduce asparagus to picky eaters – the prosciutto adds a layer of deliciousness that even the most hesitant vegetable consumers will find hard to resist. Plus, it's naturally gluten-free and relatively low-carb, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Serving Suggestions and Variations: The possibilities are endless! Serve these delectable bundles as an appetizer at your next dinner party. They pair beautifully with a creamy dip, such as a lemon aioli or a balsamic glaze. Alternatively, use them as a sophisticated side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish. For a vegetarian option, consider wrapping the asparagus with thinly sliced halloumi cheese instead of prosciutto. The salty, slightly squeaky cheese provides a similar savory element. Want to add a little extra zing? Before wrapping the asparagus, sprinkle them with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Or, drizzle them with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after baking to brighten the flavors. For a more decadent treat, try wrapping the asparagus with a combination of prosciutto and a thin slice of your favorite cheese, such as Gruyere or Fontina. The melted cheese adds a creamy, luxurious touch. Another variation I love is to add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of baking. The Parmesan gets nice and crispy, adding a nutty, salty crunch that complements the other flavors perfectly. You could also experiment with different herbs and spices. A sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a touch of smoked paprika can add depth and complexity to the dish. For a complete meal, consider adding the Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus to a frittata or quiche. The salty prosciutto and tender asparagus add a burst of flavor and texture that will elevate your brunch game. You can also chop them up and toss them into a pasta salad for a quick and easy lunch. Your Turn to Create! I'm so excited for you to try this recipe! It's truly a game-changer when it comes to simple yet elegant dishes. Don't be afraid to experiment with different variations and find what works best for your taste buds. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Once you've made your own version of this delicious Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus, I'd love to hear about it! Share your photos and experiences in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried and what you thought of the recipe. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me create even better recipes in the future. Happy cooking! I can't wait to see what culinary masterpieces you create!