ASPARAGUS WRAPPED IN PROSCIUTTO EASY

I’ll never forget the first time I saw my Aunt Maria effortlessly whip up a batch of something so elegant – she called it “dinner party perfection.” It turned out to be none other than stunning Asparagus Wrapped In Prosciutto, and it vanished from the platter in minutes. Now, I’m going to show you just how easy it is to recreate this crowd-pleasing appetizer, and I promise, you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar when you see the rave reviews!

Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto: An Appetizer That Wows

Let’s be honest, finding the perfect appetizer can feel like a quest. You want something that’s both impressive and easy to make, especially when you’re juggling other party preparations. That’s where Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto comes in! This dish is a total game-changer. It combines the freshness of asparagus with the salty, savory goodness of prosciutto. Plus, it looks incredibly elegant with minimal effort.

I’m going to walk you through every step of the process, sharing tips and tricks along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll be able to create a platter of Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Get ready to impress!

Why This Recipe Works

So, what makes this particular Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto recipe so special? Here’s the breakdown:

• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a pantry full of exotic items. We’re talking fresh asparagus, thinly sliced prosciutto, and maybe a touch of olive oil and pepper. That’s it!
• Quick Preparation: From start to finish, you can have these ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: You can bake, grill, or even air fry these little bundles of joy. I’ll cover all the options.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of the slightly bitter asparagus and the salty prosciutto is a match made in heaven.
• Elegant Presentation: They look absolutely gorgeous on a platter, making them perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Asparagus: Choose spears that are firm and bright green. Look for stalks that are about the same thickness so they cook evenly. About 1 pound is a good starting point.
• Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto is key. You want it to be delicate and melt in your mouth. Look for good quality prosciutto for the best flavor. 4-6 ounces will likely be enough.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil adds a touch of richness. Extra virgin olive oil is always a great choice.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavors.
• Optional Extras:
  • Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze after cooking adds a touch of sweetness and tang.
  • Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto:

Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus

First, we need to prep the asparagus. Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus spears. You can usually tell where they’ll break naturally. Rinse the asparagus under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This is important for browning later on.

Step 2: Wrap the Asparagus

Now for the fun part! Take a slice of prosciutto and wrap it around a few asparagus spears (about 3-5 depending on their thickness). Make sure the prosciutto overlaps slightly as you wrap. You want the asparagus to be mostly covered, but a little bit peeking out is perfectly fine. Repeat this process until all the asparagus is wrapped.

Tip: If the prosciutto is tearing easily, it might be too cold. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften up.

Step 3: Choose Your Cooking Method

You have a few options for cooking your Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto:

Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the wrapped asparagus on the baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper.
5. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp.

Tip: Keep an eye on them! The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the asparagus and your oven.

Grilling

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Lightly oil the grill grates.
3. Arrange the wrapped asparagus on the grill grates.
4. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp.

Tip: Grilling adds a smoky flavor that’s absolutely delicious. Just be careful not to overcook them!

Air Frying

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the wrapped asparagus in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches.
3. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp.

Tip: Air frying is a quick and easy option, and it gets the prosciutto super crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven, grill, or air fryer. Arrange it on a platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze (optional). Serve immediately and watch it disappear!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose the Right Asparagus: As mentioned earlier, look for firm, bright green spears that are about the same thickness. This will ensure even cooking.
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked asparagus is mushy and sad. You want it to be tender-crisp, meaning it’s still slightly firm.
• Use Good Quality Prosciutto: The flavor of the prosciutto is a key component of this dish. Splurge on good quality prosciutto for the best results.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Whether you’re baking, grilling, or air frying, make sure the asparagus is arranged in a single layer. This will allow for even cooking and crispy prosciutto.
• Get Creative with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. A sprinkle of garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or Italian seasoning can add a unique twist.
• Make Ahead Tip: You can wrap the asparagus in prosciutto a few hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add a few minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto is a versatile appetizer that can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Standalone Appetizer: Simply arrange the cooked asparagus on a platter and serve.
• With a Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of balsamic glaze, honey mustard, or a creamy dipping sauce.
• As Part of a Charcuterie Board: Add it to a charcuterie board with other meats, cheeses, and crackers.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak.

Variations to Try

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are a few variations to try:

• Asparagus Wrapped in Bacon: Substitute bacon for prosciutto for a smokier flavor.
• Asparagus Wrapped in Phyllo Dough: Wrap the asparagus and prosciutto in phyllo dough and bake for a crispy, flaky appetizer.
• Asparagus Wrapped with Cheese: Add a layer of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, between the asparagus and prosciutto.
• Asparagus with Different Spices: Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano.

Other Easy Appetizer Ideas

Looking for more easy appetizer ideas? I’ve got you covered!

If you’re looking for something sweet and savory, try Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites. They’re always a hit! Or, if you’re in the mood for something cheesy and satisfying, give Cranberry Brie Cheese Appetizer a try. It’s so easy to make and tastes incredible.

For a fun and family-friendly option, check out Taco Sticks. They’re perfect for game day or a casual get-together. And if you’re craving something creamy and savory, Spinach & Artichoke Wonton Cups are always a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget about Mini Bacon Ranch Cheeseballs! They’re absolutely irresistible. For more inspiration for your next event, check out a whole collection of Holiday Appetizers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto:

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can wrap the asparagus in prosciutto a few hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add a few minutes to the cooking time.

Q: Can I use frozen asparagus?

A: I don’t recommend using frozen asparagus for this recipe. Fresh asparagus has a better texture and flavor.

Q: Can I use a different type of ham?

A: While prosciutto is the traditional choice, you can use other types of ham, such as Serrano ham or even thinly sliced bacon.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Q: My prosciutto is tearing. What should I do?

A: If the prosciutto is tearing easily, it might be too cold. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften up.

Final Thoughts

Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto is truly a winning appetizer. It’s easy to make, looks elegant, and tastes absolutely delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or just want a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and get ready to receive rave reviews! Happy cooking!

Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto

This easy Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto recipe is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines fresh asparagus with salty prosciutto. It’s quick to prepare and can be baked, grilled, or air-fried, making it perfect for any occasion.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 200

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
• 4-6 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Black pepper, to taste
• Balsamic glaze optional
• Lemon wedges optional
• Grated Parmesan cheese optional

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Grill (optional)
• Air fryer (optional)
• Tongs (if grilling)
• Knife
• Cutting board

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), preheat grill to medium heat, or preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus spears and rinse under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear (or a small bundle of spears) with a slice of prosciutto, overlapping slightly.
4. For baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the wrapped asparagus on the baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
5. For grilling: Lightly oil the grill grates. Arrange the wrapped asparagus on the grill grates. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
6. For air frying: Arrange the wrapped asparagus in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
7. Remove from oven, grill, or air fryer. Arrange on a platter.
8. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (optional) and serve immediately.

Notes

Choose firm, bright green asparagus spears of similar thickness for even cooking. To avoid mushy asparagus, ensure it remains tender-crisp. For best flavor, use high-quality prosciutto. Do not overcrowd the pan, grill, or air fryer basket. Feel free to experiment with seasonings like garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or Italian seasoning. You can prepare the asparagus ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results. If prosciutto tears easily, let it sit at room temperature to soften.