Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus is such a simple yet delicious snack or side dish that feels fancy without much fuss. The crispy, salty prosciutto pairs perfectly with the fresh, slightly crunchy asparagus…
Tip: save now, cook later.Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus is such a simple yet delicious snack or side dish that feels fancy without much fuss. The crispy, salty prosciutto pairs perfectly with the fresh, slightly crunchy asparagus for a combo that’s hard to beat. It’s a great mix of textures and flavors that feels special but comes together quickly.
I love making this whenever I want something easy that will impress guests or just add a little something extra to dinner. Wrapping the asparagus in prosciutto is so easy, and baking it brings out the best in both ingredients. I usually sprinkle a little black pepper on top before popping it in the oven — it adds just the right touch of spice!
This dish works perfectly for a quick appetizer or alongside a light salad or pasta. I especially enjoy it during spring when asparagus is at its freshest. Whenever I make it, I always wish I had made more because it tends to disappear fast around here!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for bright flavor and firm texture. Choose medium-thick spears; too thin might overcook quickly. If you can’t find asparagus, green beans are a good substitute.
Prosciutto: This salty, thinly sliced ham adds great flavor and crisps nicely in the oven. If you need a milder or less salty option, try thin slices of ham or bacon, but prosciutto’s unique taste is hard to beat.
Olive Oil: A light coating helps the asparagus roast evenly and the prosciutto crisp. You can switch to avocado or grapeseed oil if you prefer a different flavor or higher smoke point.
Lemon (optional): A touch of lemon juice at the end brightens the dish and balances the saltiness of prosciutto. Fresh lemon is best, but a splash of vinegar or lemon zest can also work.
How Can I Get Crispy Prosciutto Without Overcooking the Asparagus?
Balancing crispy prosciutto and tender asparagus is the trick. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Wrap evenly: Wrap the prosciutto snugly but without stretching, to avoid tearing.
- Toss asparagus with oil: This helps asparagus cook well and prevents dryness.
- Bake at 400°F: This temperature crisps prosciutto quickly, so the asparagus stays tender.
- Watch closely: Bake for 12-15 minutes; check at 12 to avoid overly soft asparagus.
- Use similar-sized spears: Thicker spears take longer; thin ones crisp faster.
These tips help you enjoy that crisp, salty prosciutto wrapping with freshly roasted asparagus every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a rimmed one keeps everything contained and lets the asparagus cook evenly.
- Parchment paper or foil – makes cleanup easy and stops prosciutto from sticking.
- Tongs – great for turning the asparagus gently without tearing the prosciutto.
- Kitchen knife – to trim the woody ends off the asparagus cleanly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap prosciutto for thinly sliced pancetta or bacon for a different savory twist with a bit more crispiness.
- Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese before baking for a cheesy, salty finish.
- Wrap the asparagus with a thin slice of mozzarella inside the prosciutto for a melty surprise.
- Toss the asparagus with a pinch of red pepper flakes before wrapping to add a little heat and extra flavor.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12 spears), trimmed
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
For the Wrapping:
- 6 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 12-15 minutes to bake, so around 25 minutes total from start to finish. It’s quick to make, perfect for a fast appetizer or side dish!
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 foil to keep cleanup easy.
2. Trim and Oil the Asparagus:
Wash the asparagus thoroughly and snap or cut off the woody ends (about 1-2 inches from the bottom). Toss the asparagus spears lightly with olive oil so they have a thin coating.
3. Wrap the Asparagus:
Take one half-slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each asparagus spear, starting near the bottom and spiraling up to the top. Continue until all spears are wrapped.
4. Bake and Finish:
Place the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the top. There’s usually no need for extra salt because prosciutto is naturally salty. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crisp. Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving plate. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, fresh flavor.
Serve warm as a tasty appetizer, light snack, or side dish alongside your favorite meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh asparagus for this dish because frozen asparagus tends to be softer and releases more moisture, which can make the prosciutto soggy. If you only have frozen, thaw it completely and pat dry before wrapping.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can wrap the asparagus in prosciutto a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best crispiness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover prosciutto-wrapped asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to bring back some crispness.
Is There a Substitute for Prosciutto?
If you don’t have prosciutto, thinly sliced ham or bacon can work, though the flavor and texture will be different. Pancetta is another tasty choice that crisps up nicely in the oven.
