Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus is a recipe full of simple flavor combinations that are often the most delicious. These elegant appetizers require just a few ingredients but deliver incredible results in just a few minutes. Enjoy as a mid-day snack or liven up the party table with single stalks or asparagus bundles!
Super easy prosciutto-wrapped asparagus recipe
When I say super easy, I really mean it! This asparagus recipe only takes 2 ingredients and the flavor combo will make you drool for sure.
- A bunch of fresh asparagus
- 1 pound prosciutto ham, sliced thin
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The key to the success of this recipe for prosciutto-wrapped asparagus is the thickness of the ham. For best results, have your prosciutto sliced in your grocer’s meat department. Pre-sliced packages are ok, but you can never tell if the slices are ultra-thin.
Using the deli counter will give you greater control over the thickness of each slice of prosciutto. If your slices are too thick, they will not remain neatly wrapped around the asparagus spears and your appetizers will taste too salty.
Request very thin slices that will ensure a crispy wrap that does not fall apart when you handle the stalks of asparagus.
You can also use bacon for this appetizer. Try to find thin slices, and wrap 2 to 3 stalks to create asparagus bundles. Prosciutto and asparagus would be a delicious substitute in these bacon and cheddar scones!
Asparagus and prosciutto ingredients
- 30 asparagus spears, washed and tough bottom ends removed
- 15 slices of prosciutto, sliced thin
- 2 T. extra virgin olive oil
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Easy asparagus prosciutto wraps instructions
This recipe is simple and creates a great appetizer or side dish to serve.
Preheat broiler to high. Line a large, rimmed baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Cut each strip of prosciutto in half lengthwise. Wrap each trimmed asparagus spear with a strip of prosciutto, starting just below the tip and wrapping toward the bottom.
When finished, the entire spear should be covered, except for the tip.
Arrange wrapped asparagus spears on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving plenty of room between the spears. Use a second pan or work in batches, if necessary. Brush each spear with olive oil and season with freshly cracked black pepper, to taste. (Avoid adding excess salt because the prosciutto is naturally salty).
Place baking pan with prepared spears under the broiler and cook for about 4-5 minutes. Remove pan from oven and carefully turn each spear before placing back under the broiler. Broil for another 2 or 3 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Remove prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears from the baking sheet and place it on a wire cooling rack to allow excess grease to drain. Dab lightly with a paper towel, if desired. Transfer spears to a serving tray and serve immediately.
Other cooking methods for asparagus spears
I love the versatility of this simple dish. You can make this asparagus prosciutto recipe
- Oven-baked
- Broiled
- Grilled
- Pan-Fried
Additional topping suggestions
Because the prosciutto ham is so salty, you really don't need a sprinkle of salt. However, these other toppings would taste great:
- Lemon juice or lemon zest- squeeze a little bit of lemon juice over spears or use a Microplane for a little zest to brighten up the flavor.
- Parmesan cheese– adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese over prosciutto-wrapped asparagus gives just a hint of nutty cheesy flavor that goes so well!
- Red pepper flakes
- Goat cheese
- Balsamic vinegar
This is such an easy appetizer to make for any occasion and is a beautiful side dish to serve for the holidays. You can also enjoy this asparagus recipe as a salad topper or gluten-free snack option. Asparagus wrapped with prosciutto ham is delicious warm, but tastes amazing cold too!
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Equipment
Ingredients
- 30 asparagus spears washed and tough bottom ends removed
- 15 slices of prosciutto sliced thin
- 2 T. extra virgin olive oil
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat broiler to high. Line a large, rimmed baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- Cut each strip of prosciutto in half lengthwise. Wrap each trimmed asparagus spear with a strip of prosciutto, starting just below the tip and wrapping toward the bottom.
- When finished, the entire spear should be covered, except for the tip.
- Arrange wrapped asparagus spears on a lined baking sheet, leaving plenty of room between the spears. Use a second pan or work in batches, if necessary. Brush each spear with olive oil and season with freshly cracked black pepper, to taste. (Avoid adding excess salt because the prosciutto is naturally salty).
- Place baking pan with prepared spears under the broiler and cook for about 4-5 minutes. Remove pan from oven and carefully turn each spear before placing it back under the broiler. Broil for another 2 or 3 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Remove spears from the baking sheet and place it on a wire cooling rack to allow excess grease to drain. Dab lightly with a paper towel, if desired. Transfer spears to a serving tray and serve immediately.
Can I make these the day before and serve on a charcuterie board?
yes!