Spring is finally here and fresh green stalks are filling the market shelves. If you want a dish that looks impressive but takes minutes, this is it. This Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your next family brunch.
It is salty, crispy, and perfectly tender all at once. You only need a few simple ingredients to make this magic happen. Your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen, but you will know the secret.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total winner for busy hosts who want quality food fast. The salty prosciutto crisps up beautifully in the oven like high-end bacon. It creates a savory crunch that pairs perfectly with the earthy asparagus.
It is naturally low-carb and gluten-free, making it safe for almost any diet. You can serve it as a side dish or a handheld appetizer. It is perfect for spring entertaining when you want something light yet satisfying.
Simple Method
Making these bundles is surprisingly therapeutic and very easy to master. You just toss the veggies, wrap them up, and let the oven do the work. There is no complicated prep or fancy equipment required here.
Even if you are a beginner cook, you can handle this with confidence. The high heat ensures the ham gets crispy while the asparagus stays bright. You will love how quick and doable this feels on a weeknight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or easy to find. Fresh, seasonal produce makes all the difference in this simple dish.
- 1 lb medium asparagus spears, woody ends trimmed
- 6 oz thinly sliced prosciutto
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Lay a slice of prosciutto on a flat surface; cut in half lengthwise if wide.
- Gather 2 to 3 asparagus spears and wrap the prosciutto tightly in a spiral motion.
- Place the bundles on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer without overlapping.
- Roast for 10 to 12 minutes until the ham is crisp and asparagus is tender.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh lemon zest before serving immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these warm right off the baking sheet for the best texture. The bright lemon zest adds a beautiful pop of color and freshness. They look stunning arranged on a white platter for a holiday spread.
Pair them with a creamy garlic dip or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. They are a fantastic side for roasted chicken or a simple pasta dish. Set them out at your next party and watch them disappear instantly.
Keep It Fresh
These are definitely best enjoyed immediately while the prosciutto is still very crispy. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for two days. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for about five minutes to restore the crunch.
Avoid using the microwave as it can make the ham feel a bit chewy. You can prep the bundles a few hours ahead of time and keep them chilled. Just pop them in the oven right before your guests arrive.
Tips for Best Results
- Choose medium-sized spears so they cook at the same rate as the ham.
- Don’t skip the lemon zest as it cuts through the salty richness perfectly.
- Make sure the asparagus is completely dry before tossing with oil for maximum crispiness.
- Wrap the prosciutto tightly so it doesn’t unravel during the roasting process.
- For a holiday crowd, go ahead and double the batch because they go fast.
- Avoid over-salting since the prosciutto is already naturally quite salty.
- Try to use parchment paper to prevent the ham from sticking to the pan.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese over the top during the last two minutes.
- Swap the lemon zest for a tiny drizzle of honey for a sweet-salty vibe.
- Use thin bacon slices if you cannot find prosciutto at your local store.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
Common Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can trim and wrap the bundles earlier in the day. Keep them covered in the fridge until you are ready to roast. This makes holiday entertaining much less stressful for the cook.
What if my asparagus is very thin?
If you have pencil-thin spears, just group 4 or 5 together in each bundle. You may also need to reduce the cook time by a few minutes. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t get mushy.
Will kids actually eat this?
Most kids love anything wrapped in salty, crispy ham! It is a fun finger food that makes eating vegetables feel like a treat. It is a great way to introduce new greens to picky eaters.
I hope this simple, elegant appetizer brings a little bit of spring sunshine to your table. It is so easy to love and even easier to make. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients
- 1 lb medium asparagus spears, woody ends trimmed
- 6 oz thinly sliced prosciutto
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Lay a slice of prosciutto on a flat surface; if the slices are wide, cut them in half lengthwise.
- Gather 2 to 3 asparagus spears and wrap the prosciutto slice tightly around the middle in a spiral motion.
- Place the bundles on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Roast for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crisp and the asparagus reaches a tender-crisp texture.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with lemon zest before serving immediately.
