Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus: A Crispy, Elegant & Flavorful Side Dish
Elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a weeknight treat, Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus strikes the perfect balance between fancy and fuss-free. The salty, savory bite of prosciutto pairs beautifully with the earthy freshness of asparagus, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is stunning.
As asparagus roasts in the oven, it turns tender-crisp while the prosciutto becomes delightfully crisp around it — the kind of texture contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch, planning a romantic dinner, or simply craving a flavorful side dish that feels special, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh asparagus spears | 1 bunch (about 1 lb) | 90 |
| Prosciutto slices | 8–10 thin slices | 150 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste | 5 |
| Lemon zest (optional) | 1 tsp | 2 |
| Parmesan cheese (optional garnish) | 1 tbsp | 22 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the asparagus:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and pat dry with a paper towel. - Season lightly:
Toss the asparagus with olive oil and a pinch of black pepper. Avoid adding salt — the prosciutto will add plenty of flavor. - Wrap with prosciutto:
Take one slice of prosciutto and wrap it tightly around 2–3 asparagus spears, starting near the tip and spiraling down toward the base. Repeat until all spears are wrapped. - Bake to perfection:
Arrange the wrapped asparagus on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 12–15 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crisp. - Add finishing touches:
Optional but recommended — sprinkle with lemon zest or freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for a bright, gourmet finish.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Air fryer method: Cook at 390°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes for an even crispier texture.
- Add a drizzle: A touch of balsamic glaze or honey can balance the saltiness beautifully.
- Make it cheesy: Add a thin strip of mozzarella or goat cheese under the prosciutto for a creamy surprise.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the prosciutto and use a sprinkle of smoked paprika and shredded Parmesan instead for a smoky, savory bite.
- Make ahead: Assemble the bundles up to 6 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 100 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | Moderate (depends on prosciutto) |
| Vitamin A | 18% DV |
| Vitamin C | 22% DV |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as an appetizer alongside a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
- Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, or steak for a complete dinner.
- Include it as part of a brunch spread with eggs, fresh fruit, and crusty bread.
- For a party platter, arrange the bundles on a wooden board and drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze — simple yet sophisticated.
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus: A Crispy, Elegant & Flavorful Side Dish
4
servings5
minutes12
minutes100
kcalIngredients
1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 lb), trimmed
8–10 thin slices prosciutto
1 tbsp olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
1 tbsp Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)
Directions
- Preheat oven: Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare asparagus: Trim the tough ends and pat dry. Toss lightly with olive oil and black pepper.
- Wrap with prosciutto: Take one slice of prosciutto and wrap around 2–3 asparagus spears. Repeat for all spears.
- Bake: Place bundles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 12–15 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- Optional garnish: Sprinkle with lemon zest or Parmesan before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Choose fresh asparagus: Look for firm, bright green spears with tightly closed tips for the best texture and flavor.
Trim carefully: Remove the woody ends to ensure even cooking and a tender bite.
FAQs
1. Can I make Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the asparagus bundles up to 6 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture.
2. Can I use frozen asparagus?
It’s best to use fresh asparagus. Frozen asparagus tends to release water and can make the prosciutto soggy.
3. Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes until the prosciutto is crisp and the asparagus is tender.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the prosciutto and sprinkle smoked paprika and Parmesan on the asparagus for a flavorful vegetarian version.
5. Can I add cheese?
Certainly! Place a thin strip of mozzarella, goat cheese, or Parmesan under the prosciutto for a creamy, savory twist.
Conclusion
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. In just a few steps, you get a dish that’s visually impressive, full of texture, and bursting with savory depth. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this recipe turns a humble vegetable into something truly special — a perfect blend of crisp, salty, and fresh that feels like fine dining right at home.
